Relationships: A challenge whether or not we understand the role of gender but, one
of the big points to be made through this course IS the connection between gender and
communication-integral to understanding and maintaining relationships. For this assignment,
select a relationship. This DOES NOT mean an intimate, heterosexual relationship ONLY;
there are lots of different kinds of relationships in which gender plays a role. Briefly describe the
relationship. Given our discussion of “sex” -and “gender” earlier in the semester, characterize the
gendered nature of this relationship and each of the participants (yourself included). How do
these characteristics play a part in the communication that takes place? What are the benefits of
feminine characteristics? What are the benefits of masculine characteristics? What are the
adversities of feminine/masculine characteristics? Summarize how YOU see the role of gender in
this relationship.
