Backlash (sociology)

A "backlash" is a popular negative reaction to something which has gained popularity, prominence, or influence. Although sometimes, a backlash represents a categorical rejection of the idea, aesthetic, product, or fad in question, it is usually a reflection of a collective resentment of that thing's ubiquity in culture and media, rather than a denial of its existence. The term is commonly applied to racial discrimination and religious discrimination against minority groups, as well, such as in response to certain events or circumstances (e.g. the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001).Backlash can also refer to 'blaming the victim', which occurs when people in the surrounding environment shift blame, from the criminals, to their victims; and/or, further, blame those victims for subsequent controversies and conflicts, sometimes long after the initial crime is reported or discovered. Backlash, under these circumstances, is often a result of speculation and jumping to conclusions; such as that the victim must have been at fault, in order for the crime to have been committed. The victim may also be accused of attention-seeking, covering for incompetence, or lying (among other things) when reporting a crime. Various "old-school" attitudes pressurise victims into either "keeping their mouths shut" about certain crimes, or suffering further consequences.