Expanded circumstances in politeness: an exploration of politeness strategies in committed relationships

Abstract

Politeness is a communication structure that individuals utilize on a daily basis, whether consciously or subconsciously. The phenomenon of politeness has been examined in a variety of circumstances. However, current research surrounding Brown and Levinson's Politeness Theory has provided an accurate investigation into politeness in interpersonal romantic relationships. The purpose of this thesis was to quantify the differences in the politeness strategies men and women employ and the differences in the strategies utilized by individuals who have experience in short term relationships and those in long term relationships. Results showed that there is minimal significant difference in the strategies chosen across gender and no difference in the strategies chosen when length of relationship was compared. This sheds light on the falsity of traditional communication troupes.