Communication strategies to reduce embarrassment differences between men and women

Abstract

Differences between communication strategies found helpful in reducing embarrassment for men (N = 192) and women (N = 135) were analyzed using Discriminant Analysis. Relying on the theoretical framework of accounts, the results suggest women, in this population, tended to find more communication strategies represented excuses (denial of responsibility) helpful in reducing embarrassment. Men, in this population, tended to find communication strategies represented justifications (accepting of responsibility) more helpful in reducing embarrassment. A discussion as to why women tended to find excuses more helpful than men to reduce feelings of embarrassment is presented.