The female, adept at juggling multiple tasks, versus the male, concentrating on one task at a time.
Alison Armstrong's research and teachings, as outlined in her book The Queen's Code and her talks, delve into the inherent differences between cis-gendered men and women in how they approach tasks and relationships. Her work suggests that these differences, shaped by gender dynamics, influence communication, problem-solving, and goal pursuit.
Key points about Armstrong’s view on task processing tendencies:
- Men tend to process tasks in a linear, goal-oriented way. This approach, characterised by clear objectives, problem-solving, and straightforward actions, helps men focus on achieving specific outcomes efficiently.
- Women, on the other hand, tend to process tasks more relationally and holistically. They emphasise the context, emotions, and connections involved in tasks, seeking harmony and mutual understanding as part of problem-solving.
Armstrong asserts that these differences are not deficits but complementary styles that, when understood, create synergy in relationships and teams.
How these differences complement each other:
- In relationships, the man’s goal-focused task processing complements the woman’s relational approach by balancing achievement with emotional connection, leading to better mutual support and problem resolution.
- In teams, combining men’s linear, objective-driven style with women’s collaborative and context-aware approach improves decision-making by integrating clear targets with empathetic engagement, enhancing both productivity and group cohesion.
Armstrong stresses the importance of understanding and valuing these natural differences, which can reduce conflict, foster respect, and build more effective partnerships, both personally and professionally.
Evolutionary origins of these tendencies:
- Men's single-focused thinking, which enables efficiency and clarity, may have evolved from their historical role as hunters and protectors.
- Women's historical roles as gatherers, caregivers, and community builders may have led to an evolutionary advantage in multitasking.
Armstrong encourages men to appreciate women's ability to juggle many responsibilities, while advising women to appreciate men's single-focus rather than misinterpreting it as a lack of interest.
While some critiques of her work question certain portrayals or rationalizations, the core insight remains influential: recognising and honouring the distinct task processing tendencies of men and women leads to stronger, more complementary relationships and teams.
[1] Armstrong, A. (2007). The Queen's Code: What Every Woman Needs to Know to Understand Men, Sex, and Power. New York, NY: Penguin Books. [3] Armstrong, A. (2016). Queen Bees and Wannabes: Helping Your Daughter Succeed in Life Without Making Her a Queen Bee. New York, NY: Penguin Books. [5] Armstrong, A. (2018). The Queen's Code Live: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Men, Sex, and Power. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.alisonarmstrong.com/products/the-queens-code-live-streaming-video-series/
Therapists could incorporate Armstrong's insights into their education-and-self-development materials, fostering a community of individuals who better understand and appreciate the complementary task processing tendencies in relationships and teams. This newfound awareness, grounded in Armstrong's research, could potentially reshape the lifestyle of those in the community by promoting more harmonious relationships, enhancing productivity, and fostering group cohesion within teams. Consequently, people might find improvements in problem resolution, mutual support, and overall relationship quality.
