Special Treatment By Larry Nassar Summary

1190 Words3 Pages

At this point in time it is hard to not know who Larry Nassar is. The former doctor for Michigan State University (MSU) and USA Gymnastics was convicted of multiple crimes relating to the abuse of young women athletes. For some individuals, the news was shocking. Meanwhile, for others, his actions were part of a system that almost normalizes and excuses sexual misconduct . When news of the abuse hit the air, major news outlets failed to provide adequate coverage . This is not surprising given that according to Putterman, “women athletics in general receive only 4 percent of all sports coverage” (Putterman 6). While sexual abuse in women’s gymnastics is a pervasive issue, there was disinterest in covering the case by national news media (Putterman). …show more content…

She referred to Nassar as a “sports medicine ‘guru’” taking away his credibility through the use of quotations meant to diminish. Putterman did not hold back the details of Nassar “special treatment” which “involved him sticking his fingers in his patients’ vaginas, sometimes with his bare hands for extended amounts of time.” The author’s decision to provide a detailed description of Nassar’s “special treatment” helps paint an image for readers. The author’s word choice also helped sustain her argument as she refers to the authority figures involved in this scandal a “network of enablers.” Using this phrase, the author is showing the extent of the web of individuals and institutions enabling this behavior. The author backs up her statement about the institutions being enablers by providing evidence that at Michigan State many gymnasts reported Nassar’s behavior to adults. Although they reported the behavior, doubt played a role and the girls were forced to continue seeing him. Towards the end of the article the author draws parallels to another popular case involving Jerry Sandusky. Sandusky was a Pennsylvania State University assistant football coach who was found guilty on charges related to sexual abuse of young boys. So, the author draws parallels between the two cases not to show how they are similar but to show disparities between how we deal with cases with women experiencing sexual …show more content…

Consequences mean punishing the individuals for their wrongdoings. Many times, it is found out that there are others involved in the crime along with the suspect. The first and minor form of consequences is instant suspension without pay for those knowingly involved until further details are gathered. Depending on the extent of the person’s role in helping the perpetrator, being fired is an option. Although most people prefer to resign, there should be no severance given. Allowing the individual to keep his or her job when there is evidence of their involvement will show others they can get involved in the same or a similar situation and do not have to worry about any consequences relating to their

Open Document