I would like you to reflect on a subject matter that we have discussed

I would like you to reflect on a subject matter that we have discussed in class up to this point.  You may include your own opinion in this as well as some of the information that is troubling to you or that you were not aware of before this class.  Two page requirement.

Topic- Communication and sexuality/ love and intimacy 

. You are able to add your own reaction to the paper, I am going to add some notes from the class about this topic so you can also add notes from the power points as well.

. Include what you have learned and your reaction to the information I have included

. Be sure to have exactly 2 pages

NOTES:

Communication and Gender

–

Genderlects: women use rapport-talk (connection); men 

use report-talk (information)

•

Women less assertive in conversation

–

tag questions, disclaimers, question statements, hedge 

words

•

Categories of communication skills

–

Affective : comforting, listening

–

Instrumental: persuasive, narrative

Sexuality magnifies existing communication problems 

in a relationship

•

Reciprocity: the more a couple talks during sex, the 

more they will be able to talk about sex, and vice 

versa. 

•

Couples who communicate about sexual issues 

report more relationship satisfaction

Positive self-images and feeling good versus fears 

about body image and attractiveness

•

Fear, worry, and anxiety can decrease enjoyment of 

sexual experiences

•

U.S. media role in creating the “ideal body”

–

We must accept ourselves before others can accept us

–

Talking about insecurities with partners can help them 

understand and move us toward self-acceptance

Being a more effective listener

–

Some barriers: information overload, preoccupation with 

personal concerns, rapid thoughts, and noise 

interference

•

When others listen to us, we feel cared about, worthy, 

and protected

•

Message interpretation

–

Interpreting a message is dependent on nature of the 

relationship and your mood at the time