Date of Award

12-1-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cunningham

Second Advisor

Dr.Crandall Heather

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the techniques women may use in workplace situations where they perceive themselves as muted. This study considers how perceived mutedness impacts relational communication techniques in face-to-face and email communications in the workplace. Research is grounded in muted group theory and investigates what creates a perceived level of mutedness, including perceptions, relationships, and situational context. Prior research suggests females use more affiliative or relational communication in comparison to men. However, little research examines differences among women's communication techniques in the workplace. The present research focuses on how perceived muted voice impacts affliative language use among females and explores how women alter their communication practices. Relational practices may exist in face-to-face and email communication, so this study considers both forms of communication. Thirteen women were selected to participate in interview and focus group sessions discussing their place in the organization and how they communicate. Critical discourse analysis of the transcript texts reveal that relationships and perceived backlash contribute to mutedness. Findings also indicate when perceived mutedness increases, relational communication efforts decrease. Women who feel the highest level of mutedness no longer try to adapt to the dominant discourse; they choose to silence themselves. This finding suggests a new perspective on one aspect of muted group theory, which holds that subordinate groups assimilate to the dominant group’s communication norms.

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