Turn taking behavior and interruption between pairs in mixed sex conversations : a case study of department of english students at the university of

Abstract

The present research analyses turn taking behavior and interruption between pairs in mixed sex conversations. It aims to investigate the types and the functions of interruption among pairs in mixed sex conversations; it also investigates the effects of interrupting on interpersonal attitudes of these pairs. The sample of the study consists 15 male-female pairs who were randomly paired. The data of this study was in the form of recorded conversations, conversations were recorded, transcribed using Jefferson's symbols, and analyzed with Murata's interruption sub-categories. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study used both quantitative analysis of audio recordings and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The results of the study revealed a systematic distribution of interruptions between genders, with both engaging in competitive and cooperative interruptions. Females tend to use more cooperative interruptions, while males favor competitive ones. Both genders share similar interruption functions, with floor taking being predominant among males. Competitive interruptions serve assertiveness or disagreement, while cooperative interruptions convey agreement or clarification. Participants perceive interruptions as confrontational and disrespectful, eliciting negative emotions like anger and disrespect. Interestingly, interruptions in mixed-sex conversations are rarely acknowledged.