Answer :
Final answer:
The 1995 study found that infantilizing speech was seen as condescending by older adults but was not necessarily harmful, challenging assumptions about communication styles. The correct answer is B) Condescending; detrimental.
Explanation:
In the classic study by Whitbourne and colleagues (1995), infantilizing speech was viewed by older adults as condescending and was not, as some researchers had previously suggested, detrimental. This implies that while such speech may be perceived negatively, it doesn't necessarily result in harmful outcomes for the recipients. The study challenges the assumption that softer tones or simplified language, often used by adults when speaking to children or older individuals, inherently carry negative effects.
However, the interpretation of speech tone and style can vary greatly among individuals, influenced by various factors including culture, personal experiences, and the context in which the communication occurs. This study highlights the complexity of human communication and the importance of considering the perspectives of all parties involved.
