Issue 5: Differences in Communication Styles

When I first glanced at this issue, I was pretty sure that society was the main influence on communication styles. I also noticed Allen had much more to talk about and figured there wasn't much evidence to back up Brizendine's side. However, as I was reading I leaned more towards communication style being something we are born with. I believe both have an influence on communication style in different ways. I actually felt like the arguments didn't offer evidence that contradicted each other very much. I felt they were offering two opinions that work in conjunction.

I identified well with Brizendine's argument. I felt like my communication style and personality changed with hormones and with age. At a younger age, girls hang out with girls for the most part, but what causes the change when they start to "like" guys? It could be societal pressures, but I feel it comes with a change in hormones. Within my group of friends, those girls that hit puberty first were the first ones to start viewing guys in a romantic way. That may not be the experience everyone has, but it is one way I relate to Brizendine's stance. I also enjoyed the "Why the Teen Girl Brain Freaks" section. I felt like my communication style was out of my control during my teen years. Like Brizendine noted, I went from being a nice little girl to one who would be up and down with emotions and communication, especially around my family. I don't think it was society's pressure to act in this way. My emotions and communication often surprised myself as well as my family! On the other hand, I also agree that there are a lot of power dynamics within communication. I was intrigued by the section where Allen talked the order we place titles such as boy and girl and his or her. Another valid point was the use of derogatory words, especially feminine words used in a derogatory manner towards men. As I stated before, I believe both sides are relevant.

Q1) Are there any other examples (beside those in the book) you can think of that use language or communication style to demonstrate power?

Q2) Which side do you personally identify more with? Or is it a combination of both?