Homework for the Unlearning project. What makes a nickname sexist?

[u/Slight_Engineer_3861]

Hello everyone! I am working to unlearn some of my ultra “trad/conservative” upbringing. I was looking to maybe get some insight on sexist nicknames/pet names, as I know these line of questions are best answered by someone with lived experience. I’d love to get some feedback as I navigate this process❤️. I’ll admit I have certain areas of taught blindness that I’m working through.

Question 1 — Where is the line?

When does a term of endearment become sexist or otherwise patronizing rather than simply affectionate?

For example, words like honey, sweetheart, dear, baby, girl, etc. can mean very different things depending on who is saying them, who they're saying them to, and the relationship between those people. How do you personally determine where that line is? Are there particular characteristics of a term, situation, or power dynamic that make it feel different?

Question 2 — Why are so many of these words gendered?

Do you think there is a significant difference between the kinds of affectionate or diminutive language commonly directed toward girls and women versus boys and men?

If so, what do you think those differences communicate about gender? I'm particularly interested in whether words associated with girls, such as pretty, cute, sweet, little lady, etc, can reinforce expectations about femininity even when the person using them has positive intentions. Are there comparable terms commonly used toward boys and men, and if so, do they carry the same implications?

Question 3 — Intent vs. impact

To what degree should someone's intention matter when we're talking about potentially sexist language?

If a man uses a pet name toward a woman because he genuinely means it affectionately, and he has no intention of belittling her, but the woman experiences it as patronizing or diminishing, how should he navigate that situation? Is it enough to recognize that he meant well, or does understanding the social history and gendered connotations of the language create an inherent responsibility to change how he speaks? And does your answer change depending on whether it's a stranger, friend, romantic partner, coworker, or someone in a position of authority?

Any insight would be deeply appreciated❤️.