Ladies, do you like it when you are called "Ma'am?"?

Question

I re-ask this only because my previous question was deleted. In adittion to asking my 30-something relatives this question. I also need to know you opinion for a my "Psychology of Gender" class.

The previous question was deleted because someone considered it chatting.

Answer 1

If someone doesn't know my name and they want to address me in a respectful and non-aggressive manner, it seems fine to me to use a word like "ma'am".

I know people do have different views on this, but having worked with the public over many years I understand that people usually do not mean to be offensive when they say ma'am, darls, luv, flossie, pet, sweetie, mate, cobber, pal, dude or whatever the latest thing is.

They just don't know how to say it differently and want to show good intent, while still getting whatever it is they require.

The ones who wish to be offensive are usually pretty obvious and easily sorted out.

Cheers :-)

Answer 2

i absolutely detest being called "madam"

like as in when you get told, "I think its about time to clean your room, madam" ya know, when youre a kid. I hate that so much. I think its cos I myself dont feel like a "madam". Madams wear dresses and act all ladylike and pretty and wear pretty clothes. I am not that.

Answer 3

Yes, several of my qestions have been deleted as 'chatting'....

I'm not american so people don't say ma'am here. But yes Madamme or referred to as 'lady' i sperferrable. I think it's just good ettiquette and manners.

Answer 4

Actually no ladies will like if someone calls her Ma'am. So don't call any girl ma'am because they hate it.

Answer 5

If you're asking because many women become alarmed when they aren't called "Miss" anymore; I really don't care. And although it is nice to be spoken to in a respectful way, I have other, more important things to focus on than how I am addressed.

Answer 6

well i think it depends on what part of the country you're from.

here in southern california the answer is no. we're so laid back here. but i have family in texas that use it all of the time and they are fine with it.

Answer 7

not really

Answer 8

I do it makes me feel more mature I am teen so when people call me ma'am I feel like they are acknowledging that I am no longer a little girl but a young women

Answer 9

I never felt that I dislike being called "Ma'am" 'cause it shows little bit of the respect so whatever.

Answer 10

I hate it! It makes me cringe. It makes me feel old, like something you would say to your grandmother.  I'm 32 :P Not old. I understand its respectful, and formal but I wish there was another term. There is nothing male speific that has the same ramifications. "Sir" is not a negative.

Answer 11

I find it is used in the service sector alot, as it provides a general or generic female equivalent word to 'sir'.  

No, it doesn't bother me...but when I first started hearing it, it made me feel old...

Answer 12

I would not mind being addressed as 'Ma'am' as it shows respect from the other party. It's definitely better than to be addressed as "Aunty"!

;p

Answer 13

No, it makes me feel old

Answer 14

I dont like it...dont mind it either.  

however it's kinda an insult to me (being military) thats something saved for officers...so to call an enlist sir or maam. Is staying they dont do any work.  

Sorry it got pulled that happens in GWS a LOT.