Differences in Male and Female Communication

As I said in my earlier posts, we all have our differences and the way we communicate is no exception. We all live on the same planet yet we criticize each other as if we are worlds a part. We have been brought up in a society that teaches us to think and behave, it molds our personality and ways of life are learnt. 

Communication is perceived through different forms and we are all taught communication methods differently based on our circumstances and the situations each individual faces.   

"Too often men and women see the differences between each other and make each other wrong, rather than appreciating how they can benefit from those differences."        

(Lieberman, n.d.)

Examples of Typical Differences in Male and Female Communication Styles

• Women are more likely to talk to other women when they have a problem or need to make a decision. Men keep their problems to themselves and don’t see the point in sharing personal issues.
• Women are more relationship oriented, and look for commonalities and ways to connect with other women. Men tend to relate to other men on a one-up, one-down basis. Status and dominance is important.
• Women focus on building rapport, by sharing experiences and asking questions. Men like to tell and give information rather than ask questions. They share experiences as a way of being one-up.
• If women have a disagreement with each other it affects all aspects of their relationship. Men can have a disagreement, move on to another subject and go get a drink together.
• Women get things done at work by building relationships. Men build relationships while they are working on tasks with each other.

(Lieberman, n.d.)

Sources:

• Image: http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj147/roundroundworld/UnSpokenCommunicationBetweenGirlsan.jpg
• Lieberman, Simma. (n.d.). Simma Lieberman Associates. Differences in male and female communication styles. Retrieved from: http://www.simmalieberman.com/articles/maleandfemale.html