Abstract
Several scholars have argued that men and women are socialized to establish interpersonal relationships, such as friendships, in different ways. Traditionally feminine individuals emphasize empathy, self-disclosure, and interdependence while masculine individuals rely on activities, helping behaviors, and advice/problem-solving. In spite of these differences, basic communication courses have provided students with only a model of traditionally feminine closeness skills in coursework and materials. This study sought to determine if, after 16 weeks of instruction in a basic communication course emphasizing feminine intimacy skills, male students would prefer masculine closeness behaviors. Three-hundred and seventy-three male and female students provided self-report data on the course and perceptions of relational closeness. Results indicated that male and female students did have differing perceptions of relational intimacy. Additionally, male students did indicate a preference for some of the traditionally masculine intimacy behaviors. Limitations and suggestions for future research are provided.
Recommended Citation
Heisler, Jennifer M.; Bissett, Susan M.; and Buerkel-Rothfuss, Nancy L.
(2000)
"An Examination of Male and Female Students' Perceptions of Relational Closeness: Does the Basic Course Have an Influence?,"
Basic Communication Course Annual: Vol. 12, Article 9.
Available at:
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/bcca/vol12/iss1/9
Included in
Higher Education Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Other Communication Commons, Speech and Rhetorical Studies Commons