Date of Award

1995

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Carolyn Scott

Second Advisor

Michael Kramer

Third Advisor

Wanita Zumbrunen

Abstract

Our ability to get along with the opposite sex is often directly affected by our inability to communicate. We believe we are communicating, only to realize that what we said is not what was understood. This is not the fault of any one person or sex but is a misunderstanding of the different ways women and men communicate. These differences begin in infancy and continue to thrive throughout our lives. Our culture, religion, history, language, stereotypes, sex, and other influences discussed in this study affect how and what we perceive others to be. We observe each other from our own paradigms, trapped in the world as we see it.

By learning to accept and understand our communication differences, we can break out of our paradigms and attempt to improve the lines of communication between the sexes. This study focuses on these differences and the many influences which determine how we interact to each other in our work and personal relationships. The intent is not to generalize but to understand the extent of the possible differences. Each individual often proves to be his or her own person, not always conforming to the identified norms. This should be kept in mind as this study progresses: blame is not associated with either sex. In this regard, we are truly equal -- we all occasionally fail to understand each other

Understanding allows us to open our hearts and minds to innumerable possibilities for mutual respect and trust -- to listen to each other with our ears, eyes, and hearts. Once we attempt to understand each other, we will be capable of real communication.

Download

Share

COinS