Relationship Tip #49

When men talk to other men, they often interrupt each other to make a point or with a relative comment. Because most men do this, they feel it is a normal way of communicating and do not get offended when they are interrupted. In fact, they may reply to the interruption by saying, “Good point,” and then continue their discussion.

Women on the other hand, show each other respect by NOT interrupting when one of them is speaking. Most women feel it is impolite and disrespectful to interrupt. They save their “good points and relative comments” until the speaker is finished and has made her point.

This difference in communication styles between men and women can cause conflict. When a man interrupts a woman, she may feel he is being rude and that he was not really listening to her.

Advice for Men: Knowing that she feels it is disrespectful, try to avoid interrupting her when she is speaking. Save your comments until she is finished.

Advice for Women: Remember that interrupting is natural for men, so do not take it personally. Because men have different rules, you need to let them know in advance, what it is you want. Try starting a conversation by saying, "Please give me a few minutes to explain this, and then I would like to hear your thoughts."