Showing papers by "Howard Giles published in 1999"

‘The canary in the coalmine’: The nonaccommodation cycle in the gendered workplace

Abstract: In this paper, we look at workplace communication nonaccommodation between men and women coworkers and its role in the persistence of organizational gender inequality. We contend that the principles of Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) explain the dynamics of intergroup psychological processes underlying gender-based workplace communication breakdowns, which contribute to the development and maintenance of separate gender group workplace social identities. Drawing upon prior research and theory, especially Coupland, Wiemann & Giles’(1991) miscommunication model and Dube-Simard's model of intergroup communication breakdown, we develop a model of the workplace gender nonaccommodation cycle and its effects upon men's and women's workplace linguistic practices. We also suggest that recognition of the intergroup nature of gender-based workplace conflicts can point the way to finding solutions that reduce the incidence of these communication breakdowns or, at the least, mitigate their worst effects.

Perceptions of inter- and intra-generational communication in the United States of America and the People's Republic of China: Implications for Self-Esteem and Life Satisfaction

Abstract: The present investigation examined older people's views on communication with younger and older adults to determine if older people's perceptions parallel research findings that suggest that young adults view intra-generational communication more positively than inter-generational communication. Additionally, drawing upon the Communication Predicament of Aging model (Ryan, Giles, Bartolucci, & Henwood, 1986), it considers how these perceptions relate to psychological health. In a first study, older and younger adults from the United States of America responded to a questionnaire survey about their experiences of talking to older and younger adults. The results of analyses of variance suggested that younger adults have less positive perceptions of inter-generational communication than older adults. Regression analyses examined the link between communication climate and psychological health indices, and suggested that psychological health is related to inter-generational and intra-generational communication variables for older participants. In a second study, variations in older adults' intra- and intergroup perceptions were compared across the United States and the People's Republic of China. Unlike their American peers, intergenerational communication was not a significant correlate of adjustment in the Chinese sample, although intragenerational variables were again implicated.

Harmful Speech in Intergroup Encounters: An Organizational Framework for Communication Research

Abstract: Verbally disturbing communication, or what is broadly referred to as harmful speech (e.g., racist, sexist, and ageist speech), is a growing but fragmented area of inquiry in need of integration. In an effort to capitalize on various traditions’ insights and make connections across academic boundaries, the authors present a model for summarizing findings and generating and guiding research for several intergroup forms of deprecating speech. To begin, seven of the more established research areas—verbal aggression, gender, age, physical disability, ethnicity, jurisprudence, and rhetoric—are overviewed. These are then integrated into a model that describes the dynamics and processes underlying the type of communication that results in harm. The general utility of the framework lies in (a) its comprehensive elucidation of many types of harmful speech; (b) its specificity, because it allows for the complexity and interaction of a variety of situational, psychological, affective, social, and communicative factor...

Intergenerational Contact as Intergroup Communication

Abstract: This Epilogue highlights important progress in the area of intergenerational contact research and identifies some important operational and empirical lacunae. The diverse array of intergenerational programs is discussed as are the potential consequences of program contact for older adults, children and youth. We highlight for researchers and program planners the likelihood that pre-existing stereotypes can affect program experiences (and the communicative patterns within them) as well as the need to articulate program goals more clearly. The paper's main thrust is in drawing attention to several theoretical models that can usefully guide future research. A theoretical framework based on intergroup communication is outlined that explores the motivations and communicative behaviors likely during intergenerational exchange. Researchers should investigate communicative strategies that promote successful intergenerational contact.

Attributing Harm to Racist Speech

Abstract: This study extends previous research to examine the perceptions of harm resulting from racist speech. Using moderately intense messages, it explores these perceptions between Asian American and Caucasian ethnic groups. There is some evidence to suggest that the ethnic-group membership of the speaker will affect the perception of harm. We also note a theoretically based methodological concern regarding the manipulation of message explicitness.