Commentary: Sexism, Sex Stereotyping, and the Technical Writer

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jul 1989

Commentary: Sexism, Sex Stereotyping, and the Technical Writer

Nancy E. Veiga Universidad del Noreste

Abstract

This article discusses the impact of possible sex-based differences in communication styles on the technical writer's job. Linguistic research proposes a male and female style of communication. While it is helpful to acknowledge possible differences in communication styles, technical writers must be concerned with the moral and legal implications of sex stereotyping. To explore these issues, the article discusses what it is technical writers do, and who they interact with on a daily basis. It then reviews linguistic research, and linguistic folklore. Finally, the article determines that technical writers can choose to use both male and female traits to acknowledge multiple audiences, and improve the quality of their documents.

Journal: Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published: 1989-07-01
DOI: 10.2190/c7l9-nd3x-83cy-m1qm
Open Access: Closed
Topics: voice and style

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (1)

ALLEN (1991)

Gender Issues in Technical Communication Studies

Journal of Business and Technical Communication

Cites in this index (1)

Little et al. (1987)

Profile of Technical Writers in San Diego County: Results of a Pilot Study

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Also cites 1 work outside this index ↓

10.1177/002194368602300205

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