Gender Differences in Communication

There are numerous theories on gender differences in communication. Some theories teach that they are nature, others that they are nurtured. Some are innate and some hold that they are learned.

Others hold that there are no differences when speaking to an audience. We are all the same.

Regardless of the differences, if and how they come about and what ever the hard wiring of the brain may be, understanding the differences is essential to communicate with your opposite.

One Communication, Two Applications

This list has two basic applications. One is with colleagues, those you work with or interact with. The other application is with loved ones, family and close friends. Wherever and whenever you are communicating, understanding the differences can enhance your ability to communicate.

Understanding this will help resolve problems in relationships.

We Are Not Stereotypical

The list below is general and based on research. Even so, each individual may have qualities that are of their opposite. Some men will put the lid down, ask for directions and read the instructions.

Some women are not typical of the list below.

By understanding the gender differences in communication, what ever they may be will help with the communication process.

First the list. Then what you can do about it. The list is based on studies of how boys and girls communicate from preschool to adulthood. The findings are that we are quite different culturally.

Gender Differences in Communication

Women

Seek out relationships with others
Relate to others as equals
Prefer interdependency, collaboration, coordination and cooperation
Make decisions based on mutual agreement
Desire closeness, togetherness and affinity
Care for the approval of peers
express themselves more in private
Are more open to share problems
Tend to focus on details of emotions
More concerned with feelings
May mix personal and business talk
Tend to ask for help, advice and directions
Offer sympathy
Display empathy
Desire to understand problems
Tend to take a more sober look at challenges

Men

Tend to seek standing and position
Relate to others as rivals
Tend toward independence and autonomy
Choose or resolve by force, persuasion or majority rule
Desires space
Tend to seek the respect of their peers
Express themselves more in public
Keep concerns to themselves
Tend to focus on the details of fact
Often will not ask for advice, help or directions
Freely offer advice and analysis
Are problem solvers
Tend to look at challenges as a game unless life and death is at stake

Men can learn sensitivity, openness, and self control with competitiveness when communicating with women.

Women can learn to be more direct, assertive, and mirror the feelings of the men who they have to communicate with.

The list is not to make women into male communicators and men into female communicators. This list is a starting point to use to improve communication with the opposite sex.

Here are some additional communication facts to consider...

Communication Home Page looks at the various aspects of communication.

The Definition of Communication defines the process.

Active Listening is an essential part of communication.

The Power Of PEVR Guys, how would you like your wife to say your the sexiest man on earth?

Speechmastery.com: The Gender Differences in Communication Resource

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