Genderlect Theory Critique

By Andrea Scislo

Deborah Tannen, a linguistics professor at Georgetown University, researched conversational style. The focus was not on what people say, but how they say it. The term genderlect did not originate with Tannen, it simply suits her belief. That belief being that masculine and feminine forms of communication should be viewed as two distinct cultural dialects rather than as inferior or superior ways of speaking. Tannen insists that there are gender differences in the ways we speak. She believes that understanding each other's styles, and the motives behind them, is the first move in overcoming destructive responses (Griffin 454). Although the Genderlect Theory is approached with a scientific method, its' outcome can be considered humanistic. When critiquing the Genderlect theory, there are five standards that apply to the scientific approach.

Explanation of Data

This standard is met when a theory explains an event or behavior. The Genderlect theory explains the differences in the behavior of men and women. It is easy to see that men and women do not communicate in the same way. Simply take a look and any intimate or platonic relationship between a male and a female. Tannen's theory explains the wants and actions of each sex separately. For example, men talk for report, and women talk for rapport.

Prediction of Future Events

This standard is met when a theory predicts what will happen. Prediction is possible only when dealing with things we can see, hear, touch, smell, and taste again and again. As long as men and women will continue communicating, Tannen's findings can be applied. The more something occurs, the more universal it becomes. So as long as men continue to be assertive and women continue being sensitive, the Genderlect Theory applies.

Relative Simplicity

This standard is met when a theory is not extremely complicated. In my opinion, Deborah Tannen's Genderlect Theory is the least complicated of all theories that we have studied. Although, at some times, this theory may seem stereotypical, it is simply generalizing. Rather than giving in depth explanations, Tannen puts her findings into a simple sentence. She also uses examples of how men and women will react to certain situations, which makes the theory seem even more simple. The example given in our textbook, A First Look at Communication Theory, is the movie When Harry Met Sally. This movie includes many examples of Tannen's Genderlect Theory.

Hypotheses That Can Be Tested

A good scientific theory is testable. If a prediction is wrong there ought to be a way to demonstrate the error. The Genderlect Theory states that the communication of men and women should be looked at as two separate forms of communication, rather than inferior or superior ways of speaking. Simply observing men and women communicate can test this. If people are told to view their interaction as two separate styles, there will be less conflict.

Practical Utility

This standard is met when a theory is useful. Since a fundamental goal of any science is increased control, scientific theories should offer practical help (Griffin 38). It is inevitable that at some point in your life you will have an encounter with a person of the opposite gender. Therefore, Tannen's Genderlect Theory can be utilized in your day-to-day life. Whether it is with your sister, brother, boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife Understanding the differences in the way genders communicate will increase the positive communication that occurs.

Deborah Tannen's Genderlect theory divides men and women into two separate groups. She points out observations about their separate methods of communication. Tannen makes it a point to say that they are not applicable to all people, but a majority of them. This theory leaves room for people to draw their own conclusions.

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A communication theory that focuses on visual signs, the different meanings assigned to them, and the different ways that people interpret them, is called Semiotics. This offers some insight into the different ways that men and women communicate.

Griffin, Em.A First Look at Communication Theory. New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 1997.
Last Updated on March 12, 2000