According to Tannen's sociolinguistic study, how do women typically use language?

In Tannen's sociolinguistic study, it is observed that women often use language as a means to build rapport and connection with others. This approach emphasizes the importance of relationships and emotional engagement in communication. Women are more likely to initiate conversation topics that foster intimacy and collaboration, seeking to share experiences and create a sense of mutual understanding. This relational orientation contrasts with more competitive or authoritative ways of using language, which are often associated with male communication styles, as suggested in some of Tannen's analyses.

The focus on connection and rapport aligns with the idea that women may prioritize cooperative discourse, where the goal is to enhance interpersonal relationships rather than assert dominance or engage in competition. This reflects broader cultural patterns regarding how gender influences communication styles within various social contexts.