Style of language

The text “Co-parents, but not romantic partners” by Makda Ghebreslassie has a mixed style that varies depending on whom is speaking.

Formal features are mainly used when the reporter provides relevant information about co-parenting. This is reflected in the long and complex sentences that introduce new ideas: 

Andrea O’Reilly teaches Women’s Studies and family courses and she says this is one more example of the changing definition of family, which started going through a drastic evolution with women having children on their own in the 80s and 90s. (ll. 31-33)

The example is an indirect quote from O’Reilly. The language and structure are consistent with an academic argument and give O’Reilly credibility.

Complex sentences are also introduced when ...