Laurice Condon
Intrapersonal Communication
COM 265
September 18, 1996
Gender-based Differences in Intrapersonal Communication
Baumgartner establishes a link between gender communication and intrapersonal communication.
She argues that the reasons for gender differences in intrapersonal communication stem
from differences in the physiological makeup of the brains of males and females and also
from the differences in how males and females are taught to communicate in early childhood.
She suggests that these differences impact how males and females communicate interpersonally.
Baumgartner concludes that in order for men and women to have a better understanding of each
other and to improve communication between the two, there must first be an awareness of the
differences in how they are taught to communicate.
Based on personal experience, I would have to agree with the article. I agree that females
are taught to be submissive and quiet and to value intimacy rather than independence.
People tend to relate to me in a more positive manner when I conform to the
established norms for how women should behave and interact. However, in
my personal life as well as in my professional life, I have often felt that I
"haven't been heard" and that I haven't been taken seriously when attempting
to express ideas or opinions. I have concluded also that communication style
(language) is one of the keys. Therefore, because communication per se is so
complicated and such a fascinating topic, I was led to choose it for a major.
I also agree that we can come to a better understanding and improve gender
relations through awareness, but there is still the question of the physiological
differences in the brains of males and females about which we can't do anything.