[Publib] bothered by "pet" names...get ready for worse

[Epling, Jimmie (KDLA)]

As a professional, it can be a bit irratating to be called a "pet" name like "honey" and "sweetie". I've been called "honey", "sweetie", and, in my case, "red" because of my red hair (now faded a little).  When i heard it, I attibuted it to a generational and gender habit, ignoring it.  When not working, I've been addressed in much the same way by older female servers in restaurants or retail businesses.

Yes, if a woman, I would be offended if a young man said the same words and it was accompanied by facial expression and body language suggesting a more intimate undertone.

If you are offended by the "pet" names used by the older generation, then you had better get ready to really be offended by the "pet" names in use by the younger generation when you encounter them. They are no where near as inoffensive nor as endearing in that quaint days gone by way.  All you have to do is listen to some contemporary culture icons, comedians, and recording artists to hear what might be in store for you!

Jimmie

Jimmie Epling, Regional Library Consultant
FIVCO/Big Sandy Regional Office
Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives
P.O. Box 370 / 122 South Main Cross St. 
Louisa, KY 41230-0370
V: 606.638.4797  F: 606.638.0586
jimmie.epling at ky.gov

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