Gender-related communication behaviors are affected by certain biological influences and the gender orientation of communicators. These elements affect how people communicate as well as how they interpret the communication efforts of others. Another source of influence on communication behavior and interpretation is awareness of potential gender-related communication barriers. People choose their communication styles based on their strategies, context, and the unique combination of influences on their cognitive behavior. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of biological influences, gender orientation and awareness of communication barriers on the recognition of communication effectiveness. To address the recognition of communication effectiveness, a 3-part survey was created that (a) measured the recognition score of the respondents, (b) determined gender orientation based on the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI), and (c) provided specific demographic information for consideration in the interpretation of the mean recognition scores. The statistical results indicated the biological sex and gender orientation of this particular research population did not have an impact on their recognition of communication effectiveness. Regarding the demographic variables, the only variable that demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the mean recognition scores was marital status. The respondents who were married had a significantly higher recognition of communication effectiveness compared to the respondents who were not married. This study provides additional insight into the basic gender-related communication behaviors that affect communication choices. This information can lead to improved interpersonal and organizational communication, as well as provide essential data for developmental training material.
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