Professional Portfolio SOWK14005 Assessment 3

Reflexive Practice Week 8

Assertive Communication

It is said that there are many differences in communication between genders with men processing information analytically while women tend to process things abstractly (Kirtley & Weaver 1999; Braedyn 2010). Each gender has a characteristic communication style and can incorrectly assume that the opposite gender reasons in the same way as they do this can lead to miscommunication, because each person considers they are communicating effectively based on their own communication styles (Braedyn 2010). Gender identity and how this is communicated is an important aspect of communication through every layer of society (Miller 2012, p. 12). As social workers we are frequently reminded through our values about the importance of being aware of gender identity and the subsequent societal and individual power being careful not to make assumptions that stereotype and oppress (Miller 2012).

From my own experience I currently work in a male dominated environment, I have in the past frequently accepted the way in which communication is perceived and actioned there, without realising that I have been contributing to the stereotypical viewpoints of communication between opposite genders. During this fortnight practiced assertive communication whilst being aware of my own gender stereotype and that of others, this proved very challenging although I managed to make my voice heard eventually.

 

References

Braedyn, A M 2010,   the Impact gender has on effective communication, Gender communication, Professional Training, viewed online 23 April 2012

http://amanda-makenziebraedyn.suite101.com/gender-communication-a196747

Kirtley, M D & Weaver, J B 1999, ‘Exploring the impact of gender role self perception on communication style’, Women’s studies in communication, vol 22, online tandfonline.

Miller, l 2012, Counselling skills for social work, Sage Publications ltd, London