This pattern refers to the different ways men and women communicate based on their perceived goals in conversation:
* Rapport talk: Women, according to Tannen, often prioritize building and maintaining relationships through conversation. They use language to connect, share feelings, and build intimacy.
* Report talk: Men, on the other hand, often focus on conveying information and asserting dominance. They use language to establish their status, share facts, and solve problems.
Tannen argues that these different communication styles can lead to misunderstandings and conflict between men and women. For example, a woman might feel frustrated if her partner doesn't seem to be listening when she's trying to share her feelings, while a man might feel pressured if his partner expects him to always be emotionally supportive.
It's important to note that Tannen's theory has been both praised and criticized. Some argue that it oversimplifies the complexities of communication and ignores the vast range of individual differences. However, it remains a widely discussed and influential framework for understanding the different ways men and women use language.