Gross-gender and gross-generational communication in Siyabuswa

Abstract

The problem addressed in this study is the difference in patterns of verbal and non-verbal communication across gender and generational groups, specifically between members of traditional and urban communities. These differences, it is argued, are linked to differences in values, attitudes, beliefs, views, etc., i.e. cultural differences, between the groups. Misunderstanding in such communicative interaction arises because people are unaware of the role of cultural differences in the construction and interpretation of texts/cases of language use, for example, the gender differences in the way men and women from different age groups and different habitats (rural vs. urban) can generate misunderstanding. In the Ndebele community, there is a marked diversity in communication patterns and practices by gender. These differences in communication patterns between men and women are socially constructed and are related to power. For example, women are not expected to maintain eye contact with their male counterparts in mutual conversation. Where they disregard these communicative norms, it would be regarded as socially unacceptable and such behaviour would be regarded as disrespectful by the traditional members of the society. Non-verbal behaviour may also impede effective communication because there are different systems of using and understanding gesture, posture, silence, touch and physical appearance in different gender, age and rural/urban communities. Copyright