Gender, Emotion, and Communication: A Focus on Language

Course: Gender Issues in Psychology

Prepared by: Javeriya Amir
Registration no. SP22-BPY-049
Date: 19th November,2024.
Abstract
This explores the intersection of gender, emotion, and communication, with a specific focus on
language. It examines key gender-based linguistic patterns, differences in verbal communication
styles, and the structural biases embedded in language. The discussion emphasizes the social and
cultural influences shaping these patterns and highlights innovative strategies for fostering
inclusivity through gender-fair communication practices. By understanding and addressing these
disparities, language can become a tool for empowering individuals and promoting equity.
Gender Differences in Language
Language reflects and reinforces societal norms, including gender roles, as evident in speech
patterns and conversational styles. Women tend to use collaborative and empathetic language,
aligning with cultural expectations of relational behavior, while men often adopt assertive, task-
focused speech, mirroring ideals of leadership and independence (Mulac et al., 2001).
Differences in Verbal Communication Styles
Verbal communication highlights gender differences, with women focusing on connection-
building through active listening and emotional validation, while men prioritize information
exchange and problem-solving (Tannen, 1990).
Men: Action-Get straight to point details come later.
Ideas-Identifying problems and improving them
Women: Process-Tend to use background information to communicate about the present.
People-Focus on relationship building, teamwork and communication.

Gender Differences in Language Usage

"Men and Women Differences in Using Language: A Case Study of Students at STAIN Kudus" by
Sri Wahyuningsih, STAIN Kudus, Indonesia
Linguistic Aspects Women Men
Adjectives Use more adjectives (e.g., Use fewer adjectives, less
"lovely," "sweet") descriptive

Color Words Use more color-related terms Use fewer color-related terms

Adverbs Use adverbs like "so," "quite," Use "very" but less
"of course" frequently

Expletives and Swear Avoid swear words, use mild Did not use expletives in this
Statements expressions like "oh my god" Context

Diminutives Use affectionate words like Avoid diminutives;

"so sweet," "oh dear" considered inappropriate

Pronouns Use first-person plural Use singular pronouns (e.g.,

pronouns (e.g., "we") "I")

Attitude Differences Emotional responses, Focus on solutions, direct

prioritize politeness actions

Syntax Differences Use modulation and Less modulation, fewer

interrogative sentences questions
Language Processing
In her research, Angela Frederica 2011 discusses how men and women process language
differently. Women tend to focus more on how something is communicated, emphasizing word
choice, politeness, and emotional expression. They often use adjectives and modulating phrases
(e.g., "maybe," "please") to soften their speech and maintain harmony. On the other hand, men
prioritize the content of the communication, focusing on directness and factual information, with
less concern for emotional nuances. (Frederica, 2011).
Factors Influencing Gender Differences in Language
Biological Influences:
Biological factors, including prenatal development and hormonal influences, affect language
differences. Testosterone and estrogen influence brain lateralization, with women having
more bilateral brain activity supporting language skills, and men displaying more lateralized
brain activity, linked to direct, task-focused speech. Hormones like estrogen enhance
empathy and verbal expression, while testosterone supports assertiveness.
Psychological Influences:
Psychologically, women use language to express emotions and build connections, while men
tend to be more task-oriented and goal-driven. Cognitive processing also differs: women
focus on relational thinking and descriptive language, while men prioritize objectivity and
facts.
Sociocultural Influences:
Sociocultural factors like upbringing, social context, and cultural norms shape language use.
Women are socialized to use expressive, emotionally connected language, while men are
encouraged to use assertive, direct speech. Workplace dynamics further influence language,
with men focusing on competition and women emphasizing collaboration.
Theories Related to Gender and Communication
The following theories provide insights into gendered communication and language use
Theory Description
Deficit Theory (Lakoff, 1975) Women's language is seen as deficient or
inferior to men's due to societal
expectations and power imbalances.
Difference Theory (Tannen, 1990) Women's language differs from men's due
to socialization, cultural norms, and
communication styles.

Dominance Theory (Sidanius & Pratto, 1999) Men's language dominates and reinforces
social hierarchy, perpetuating gender
inequality.

Social Construction Theory (Butler, 1990) Gender and language are socially
constructed, performed, and negotiated
through interactions.

Performativity Theory (Butler, 1990) Language use performs and reinforces

gender identities, shaping social reality.

Impact of Gender on Communication

Gendered communication has far-reaching implications, influencing everything from personal
relationships to professional opportunities. For instance, studies show that job
advertisements containing masculine-coded language deter women from applying,
perpetuating gender disparities in leadership roles (Gaucher et al., 2011). Similarly, men
often interrupt women more frequently during discussions, reinforcing implicit biases
about authority and expertise. In political and media contexts, these dynamics are equally
pervasive. Female leaders often face greater scrutiny for their language choices, with assertive
speech labeled as ‘abrasive’ while similar behavior in male counterparts is seen as strong
leadership.

Issues Caused by Language in Gendered Communication

Misunderstandings: The gendered nature of language can lead to significant
misunderstandings. For example, women’s emotional expressions might be perceived as over-
emotional or irrational, while men’s reluctance to express emotion can be interpreted as cold or
unfeeling. These misunderstandings can create barriers to effective communication, leading to
emotional disconnect and frustration (Tannen, 1990).
Power Imbalances: Men’s more dominant linguistic style often results in power imbalances
during communication. Men may interrupt more frequently or dismiss women’s viewpoints,
perpetuating gender inequalities in both private and professional settings (Zimmerman & West,
1975). This imbalance affects emotional expression, as women’s emotional contributions are
often undermined or ignored.
Cultural Norms: Rigid cultural norms surrounding gendered communication can limit authentic
emotional expression. Men, discouraged from showing vulnerability, may suppress emotional
language, while women’s expressions of vulnerability may be trivialized or dismissed (Brody,
1997).
Stereotypes and Miscommunication: Gendered language reinforces stereotypes, women may
be stereotyped as overly emotional, while men are expected to be stoic and decisive. Such
stereotypes shape the way people communicate and interpret each other's words, leading to bias
in feedback and decision-making. This can result in frustration and miscommunication, as both
genders may feel misunderstood or judged based on societal norms rather than their actual
intentions.
Conclusion
Language is a dynamic force that both reflects and shapes societal structures.
Understanding the nuanced interplay of gender, emotion, and communication allows us to
challenge stereotypes and foster inclusivity. By adopting gender-sensitive practices and
leveraging innovation, we can create communication frameworks that empower all
individuals, paving the way for a more equitable future.
References
Fischer, A. H., & Manstead, A. S. R. (2000). Gender and emotions in different cultures.
CrossCultural Research, 34(1), 62-71.
Gaucher, D., Friesen, J., & Kay, A. C. (2011). Evidence that gendered wording in job
advertisements excludes women. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 101(1), 109-
128.
Mulac, A., Seibold, D. R., & Farris, J. L. (2001). Gender differences in communication style.
Communication Monographs, 68(4), 315-335.
Sczesny, S., Formanowicz, M., & Moser, F. (2016). Can gender-fair language reduce gender
stereotyping and discrimination? Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 25-30.Tannen, D. (1990). You Just
Don’t Understand: Women and Men in Conversation. Ballantine Books
Wahyuningsih, S. (n.d.). Men and Women Differences in Using Language: A Case Study of
Students at STAIN Kudus. STAIN Kudus, Indonesia. Email: [email protected]