An NIU associate professor of communication studies will be speaking about a book that concerns the issues of communication between men and women.

This best-selling novel by Deborah Tannen, “You Just Don’t Understand,” will be the topic of discussion at the brown bag luncheon at 633 W. Locust in the Wesley Foundation.

The First Congregational Church of DeKalb asked Lois Self to speak about the book.

Self plans to talk about the book in general and some of the conclusions the author makes.

Some of the points covered will be communication style differences between men and women and the patterns and issues and concerns this topic brings about, Self said

There has been a lot of research done in the area of communication differences between the sexes and the book brings out some good points, Self said.

Self said research has been done on men interrupting women while having a conversation, Self said.

“If we explain the differences in communication styles between men and women, there might be a higher degree of understanding on the topic,” Self said.

Self has a lot of experience and knowledge in the field of communication studies, but she said her speech is not about her personal experiences, but about what Tannen says in her book.

Self said it would be a good idea to read the book.

“I am asked to talk to businesses, local civil groups and other organizations about different topics fairly often,” Self said.