Genderlect Survey Activity

Genderlect Survey

Have you ever wondered why it can be difficult to talk with someone of the opposite gender? Dr. Deborah Tannen, a linguist, may have found the answer. She calls it Genderlect. This word describes her belief that masculine and feminine styles of discourse are best viewed as two distinct cultural dialects rather than as inferior or superior ways of speaking. While there appear to be patterns in how men and women use conversation, there is no stereotype. Most researchers see more conversation style diversity within each gender rather than between them. In fact, Tannen suggests it is important for successful communication to be able to use both styles, be bilingual.

Differences in priority tend to give men and women differing views of the same conversation: Females tend to be socialized to focus on being liked by their peers, a form of symmetrical connection. Males tend to be socialized to focus on being respected by their peers, a form of asymmetrical status. Differences can be found in these areas:

• Status vs. connection
• Listening
• Telling a story
• Asking questions
• Sounding certain vs. sounding tentative
• Private vs. public speaking
• Fighting for fun vs. fighting from anger
• Direct vs. indirect
• Instrumental vs. expressive
• Offer advice vs. offer empathy

Take The Survey

• Take this Genderlect Survey to find out how you fit into each of the categories.

  As you read the conversations in the quiz, you will determine which conversation rituals you identify with most often. This will help assess whether you identify with the Rapport Rituals (female) or Report Rituals (male). Follow the instructions at the end of the quiz to determine your tendencies.

• You will not be graded on how you answer the questions; you get full credit for simply taking it. The survey is for you to find out more about the ways you communicate. Your submissions are anonymous.