Meaning
MGT focuses on the communication experience of marginalized groups in terms of linguistics. The central belief of the theory suggests that minorities may often be muted, meaning unable to express themselves, with the usage of language. MGT attempts to study interactions between dominant and sub-dominant groups, including, but not limited to, men and women. Apart from gender issues, the theory explores overlapping issues of power in various settings.
Invention
Created in 1975 by social anthropologists, Shirley and Edwin Ardener who were curious about social structure and hierarchy. Ardener’s beliefs were adapted and expanded in Kramarae’s book Women and men speaking: Frameworks for analysis in 1981.
Development
MGT was developed based on the observation of women’s experience as a low-power group in the 1970s in the US. Along with gender differences, Ardeners took into account the cultural context. Later, Kramae used available theoretical frameworks to answer some of the communication questions about female’s behavior. MGT continues to develop under the supervision of modern researchers: Taylor, Hardman (2000), and Nangabo (2015).
Theory used in studies
Currently, several implications from MGT are used in contemporary communication studies. First, males and females perceive reality in a different manner due to distinct experiences in the division of labor. Second, the political dominance of men limits the free expression of women’s voice. Third, to be involved in society, women have to adapt their models of behavior to fit within acceptable male systems of expression.
Practical application
Practical applications of MGT are similar to those of Feminist Standpoint Theory. Can be used in gatekeeping, education, Internet, email, co-cultural communication, cases of sexual assault.
Organization of information
In MGT, the information is arranged around three major concepts, such as mutedness, muted group, and the muting process.