He Said She Said Part 2: How Men and Women Communicate Differently

Summary

In this insightful discussion, communication expert Steve Rohr delves into the nuances of how men and women communicate differently, both in personal and professional settings. He explains that men tend to approach from the side to avoid confrontation, while women's direct approach can be misinterpreted. Rohr highlights that men rely on mental imagery for memory, often recalling visual details but not specific dates, unlike women who remember comprehensive details. He advises understanding rather than frustration in such situations. Rohr also touches on the fact that men process thoughts internally before speaking, while women often think out loud to reach a decision. The conversation emphasizes the importance of giving men space when they retreat and the need for active listening when women share problems, rather than immediately trying to fix them. For more insights, Steve's book can be found at RealSteveRohr.com.

Takeaways

• 👥 Men and women communicate differently in various contexts, including the workplace and personal life.
• 🚶‍♂️ Men typically approach each other from an angle or the side, not head-on, which can be misinterpreted as confrontational by women.
• 👩‍❤️‍👨 Men remember visual details about significant events, while women tend to remember the exact date and circumstances.
• 🤔 Men are more likely to forget dates because they focus on mental imagery rather than specific details.
• 🗣️ Women often speak before they think, using conversation as a way to process their thoughts, unlike men who process internally before speaking.
• 🧠 Men process conversations internally before expressing them, which can lead to misunderstandings about their level of care or concern.
• 🏠 When a man needs space or retreats to his 'man cave,' it's important to give him time alone rather than trying to 'fix' the situation.
• 👂 Listening is crucial when a woman has a problem; men should focus on understanding and empathizing rather than immediately trying to solve the issue.
• 🔧 Men have a natural tendency to want to fix problems, but women often just need to be heard and validated.
• 📚 For more insights, Steve Rohr's book can be found on his website, RealSteveRohr.com.

Q & A

How do men and women typically approach each other differently?

Men usually approach each other from an angle or the side, not head-on, while women tend to approach directly from the front.

Why might a man perceive a woman approaching him from the front as confrontational?

A man might see a direct frontal approach as confrontational because it is not the typical way men approach each other, which is more often from an angle or the side.

What is the difference in how men and women remember significant dates?

Men tend to remember the visual imagery and how their partner looked on significant dates, but may not remember the exact date. Women, on the other hand, remember the date, time, and even details like what shoes they wore.

Why might a man forget an anniversary, according to the communication expert?

A man might forget an anniversary because when in love, men focus on mental visual imagery rather than dates, whereas women engage in memory activity that includes the date.

What does a study suggest about how men can show they care?

A study suggests that if a man engages in an activity that demonstrates he cares about a woman's emotions, it can be enough to show his concern.

How do men and women differ in their thought processes before speaking?

Men process their thoughts internally before speaking, often having made a decision by the time they verbalize it. Women, however, often speak to process their thoughts out loud, seeking to figure out what to do.

What should you do when a man needs his own time or retreats to his 'man cave'?

When a man retreats to his space, it's important to give him time alone. Women should avoid trying to fix the situation, as this can make the man feel more vulnerable.

What is the typical reaction of women when they have a problem?

Women often want to talk about their problems and seek someone to listen to them. They are not necessarily looking for solutions but rather the act of being heard.

How should men respond when a woman needs to talk about a problem?

Men should listen attentively without trying to immediately fix the problem. Understanding and acknowledging the woman's feelings is more important than offering solutions.

Where can one find more information or resources from the communication expert mentioned in the script?

You can find more information and resources from the communication expert at his website, RealSteveRohr.com.