The aim of this theoretical paper is to show differences of women and men in complimenting and to explain intervening variables in the gender-specific compliment behaviour. Even if compliments are two-unit turns, the term paper will, due to space limitations, only focus on selected aspects of complimenting, which will be distribution, topics and patterns, and leave out compliment responses. The chosen aspects are the most significant and representative to show differences in and influences on male and female compliment behaviour. The study of the influence of gender on complimenting is of interest since it provides insights into the complex differences of language use of men and women. It also provides interesting facts about sex-related values and the role of society for gender-specific differences.
The term paper will be mainly based on the findings of three authors and the corresponding corpora: Janet Holmes and her New Zealand corpus, Robert Herbert and his American English data as well as Nessa Wolfson and her American English findings. All compliments were collected by the researchers and their students, predominantly within their community, through an ethnographic method in either New Zealand or the United States of America.
The first part of the work will provide an explanation of compliments. A general definition will be given, as well as some interesting features will be mentioned briefly. Afterwards, the basic functions of compliments will be explained. The second part will focus on the influence of gender on complimenting. First, the unequal distribution of compliments will be discussed. Second, the sex-related differences in the choice of topics will be dealt with and finally the gender-based preferences for patterns will be explained.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Definition of compliments
- What is a compliment?
- Functions of compliments
- The Influence of Gender on Complimenting
- Distribution
- Topics
- Patterns
- Conclusion
- References
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to explore gender differences in complimenting behavior and explain the factors influencing these differences. The paper focuses on compliment distribution, topics, and patterns, leaving out compliment responses due to space limitations. This study is significant for understanding the complexities of gendered language use, revealing insights into sex-related values and societal influences on gender-specific behaviors.
- Gender differences in complimenting behavior.
- Factors influencing gender-specific complimenting behavior.
- The role of compliments in establishing solidarity and relationships.
- The perception of compliments as face-threatening acts.
- The impact of social status on complimenting behavior.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the topic of gender differences in complimenting behavior and outlines the paper's scope and objectives. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these differences for gaining insights into gendered language use and societal values.
- Definition of Compliments: This chapter provides a general definition of compliments as speech acts consisting of a compliment and a response. It highlights the functions of compliments, such as creating solidarity, expressing approval, and serving as a topic for conversation.
- The Influence of Gender on Complimenting: This chapter delves into gender-specific differences in complimenting behavior, focusing on distribution, topics, and patterns. It explores the reasons why women tend to give and receive more compliments than men, analyzing both same-sex and cross-sex interactions. The chapter examines factors such as social status, perceptions of solidarity, and the potential for face-threatening acts in influencing these differences.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key terms and concepts explored in this paper include: complimenting, gender differences, language use, social status, solidarity, face-threatening acts, distribution, topics, patterns, and cross-sex interactions. The paper analyzes these elements to provide a deeper understanding of how gender influences the use of compliments in communication.
- Quote paper
- Stephanie Desoye (Author), 2012, On the Influence of Gender on Complimenting, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1000987
