Read section 8.4 in the text review the main points about gender in Chapter 4  Watch Socio-linguist and author D

Read

• section 8.4 in the text
• review the main points about gender in Chapter 4 

Watch

Socio-linguist and author Deborah Tannen has written two best-selling books about women and men’s conversational styles: Thats Not What I Meant and You Just Dont Understand.  She points out that men and women’s communication styles can be so different they have difficulty understanding each other. At the same time, effective communication is one of the hallmarks of a strong relationship. Couples who criticize each other, are defensive, contemptuous or stonewall the discussion place the relationship in harm’s way. 

For this paper, you will conduct a small study of the communication styles used by one couple. You may either observe them without disclosing your intent (aim to witness 2-3 conversations), or interview them at length about any miscommunications they have experienced. Whatever method you choose, your goal is to see how they communicate, whether any of the styles identified by Tannen are used, and if that impeded communication. 

Use 1-2 scholarly sources in addition to the provided material for background information regarding gender and communication. 

This link explains basic research methods used in social science: 

Papers should be 3-4 pages in length and you do not have to submit copies of your notes unless you think this will enhance your work. A suggested approach to the paper would be to introduce the paper, explain the research about gender and communication styles,  provide background on the couple, summarize the conversations, analyze them against your research and write a conclusion.