Women, on the other hand, often view themselves primarily in connection with other people. Their image is more a network or web of relationships than a ladder with separate steps. Women try to get close to other people and reach agreement with them. Perhaps this is because throughout history women have been responsible for raising children, who are dependent and require emotional support. According to Tannen, while men use language to show independence, status, and power, women use language to establish connection and intimacy.