Question

Think of the last time you had a misunderstanding while speaking with someone of the opposite sex. Based on what you have learned about gender differences in communication, use specific examples to describe what you think was the root cause of the misunderstanding. Also, explain what approach you might take in the future should a similar situation arise again.

Answer 1

Women and men can be perceived as members of two distinct and separate subcultures within a larger, more general culture. Each subculture has a set of rules, beliefs, behavioral expectations, and verbal and nonverbal symbols. For both men and women, language and nonverbal cues receive reinforcements for employing expected communication styles and sanctions if they should venture into the other’s territory.