Question

Lucy: “Mr. Smith is refusing to accept my science project because he says my paper isn’t long enough! I just don’t understand; I worked so hard on that and now it was all a waste of time.” Peter: “Don’t worry, you can always enter again next year.” Lucy: “I don’t know why I bother talking to you, you don’t listen to a word I say!” What communication difference (or differences) led to the misunderstanding between Lucy and Peter?

Answer 1

Peter told Lucy that she could enter next year. But Lucy wanted Peter to say how it wasn't fair to her.

Answer 2

Lucy and Peter’s conversation reflects the emphasis women place on emotions and the emphasis men place on problem solving. Lucy expected Peter to understand her emotions while Peter offered a solution to the problem.