The concept of paralinguistics, which is the study of sounds, really caught my attention as I was reading chapter 5. The sound of ones voice as they speak, despite what they are actually saying, can really give away a persons mood, emotion, or true intention. For example. a person can say “I’m okay”, but if their voice is a bit sad and monotone it could reveal that they may in fact not be okay. In addition, I also thought it was interesting how the book stated that some accents rank lower that others in terms of credibility and intelligence. Those accents that are more similar to that of standard English, or that of our own accent will come off as being more intelligible than others. For instance, I’ve witnessed people preferring European accents over Asian accents. As an asian American myself I know that people think that Asian accents are “fobby” while they categorize European accents as “attractive”. I could never figure out why people thought this way, but after reading this particular section in the reading I have a better understanding of their ignorance.
I agree with you on how it was interesting how it was odd how some accents rank as being more or less credible than others, but I must admit I have played into the stereotype. For example, even watching certain TV shows, if I hear an accent (not only those that are foreign, but those different ones in the US), and I hear someone speak and I can tell they are from a certain region, I sometimes I will make judgements. I think it's interesting because I think it happens within California, too. For example, southerners might think we sound dumb for saying "hella" and we might think that those who live in southern california sound like airhead surfers.
ReplyDeleteI understand what you mean when people prefer European accents than Asian accents. I think the media has a lot to do with this. I remember coming across an article from a fashion magazine saying that research have shown that European is seen as “attractive” whereas Asians are seen as “not attractive”. I thought this was extremely shocking because I personally believe all cultures have their similarities and differences. I have a friend who thinks British accents are “sexy” and I could never figure out why! It just amazes me how even the tone of any accents can lead to people taking you seriously or not.
ReplyDeleteWobbledyWa,
ReplyDeleteI really like your post. I think paralanguistics is really intriguing and it has a lot of credibility in terms of discovering someone's true intentions. I like the example you included about how tonality will often reveal emotions that a person may be trying to hide. It's really interesting to try and pick up on those hidden messages when people are speaking. I work in a Martial Arts studio and when I am teaching, tonality is everything. The way we say things, really makes a difference. Also, the concept about accents is really interesting. Honestly, before reading the chapter I had never considered the idea that certain accents gain better credibility than others. In an odd manner, it makes sense. When I really think about it, British accents do tend to ignite a more sophisticated ideal in the brain for whatever reason. Good post!