Gender and Communication

Paper Summary:

The paper states that language is defined as "a system of communication using sounds or gestures that are put together in meaningful ways according to a set of rules". The way language is linked to gender deals with what is known as sociolinguistics, or how particular social categories use language in different manners and styles. The paper notes that in this case the social categories are male and female and then goes on to explore the specific speech patterns exhibited by each sex in order to help shed some light on our understanding of the opposite sex.

From the Paper:

"From birth on we are taught indirectly what is expected of us as men or women. These gender roles provide our "society to function smoothly [and] the security that comes from knowing what's expected of you" . Girls are expected to "play nice" with each other, which contributes to their future need for maintaining relationships by being cooperative. Without being able to connect with others, females are likely to become discontented with their position in life. This drive is greatly influenced by the hormones oxytocin and dopamine. Upon relating with others, especially other females, girls experience elevated levels of these hormones which are known for activating the pleasure centers within the brain."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Adler, R. B., & Proctor, R. F. (II). (2007, 2005). Looking Out, Looking In (12th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Thomson Learning.
• Brizendine, L. (2006). The Female Brain. New York, NY: Broadway Books.
• Haviland, W. A., Prins, H. E. L., Walrath, D., & McBride, B. (2008). Cultural Anthropology: The Human Challenge (12th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Thomson Learning.
• Morris, C.G., & Maisto, A. A. (2008). Understanding Psychology: 8th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ:Pearson Prentice Hall.
• Tannen, D. (1990). You Just Don't Understand: Women and Men in Conversation. New York, NY: William Morrow.

More papers on Gender and Communication:

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• Term Paper # 138791 : "Gender and Communication"
• Analytical Essay # 126201 : "Gender and Communication"

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