Men and women and differing communication strategies

I have been thinking of this post for a while and I hope it won't offend anyone or descend downwards!

I am interested in why some men often use humour and sarcasm to avoid discussing serious issues, especially if women are passionate about it. I am not speaking about my own DH but other men I have been in contact with. I know some women do this, but when men do it, it seems to have a greater effect (in my experience).

It bothers me that so often the "battle of the sexes" seems to hinder diplomatic, fruitful discussions between men and women, as it descends into a power play instead.

What do you think? Am I being overly sensitive? I used to work in a law firm and it happened to me ALL THE TIME, and most of the men were young, progressives, they just seemed to enjoy belittling me when I was passionate about something.

I have noticed a communication style that is common in male-dominated workplaces, it's like a verbal one-upmanship, constant bantering instead of direct conversation. Have you noticed this dynamic more in group scenarios than in one-on-one exchanges?

I think men and women communicate so differently all the time - so many different reasons, I recently went to a seminar on it actually - found it super helpful.
Most of the time when guys do things like that they aren't intentionally being nasty.
I think if you can learn about the different ways we communicate it can help immensley. Although, it does help if the man in question is doing the same :)

Sorry, I hope that made sense!

Thanks for the responses.

Marydean yes definitely more in group situations. I actually only socialize with men in groups usually with dh (I don't have any male friends of my own)

sneaky that seminar sounds fascinating!