What is the purpose of word counters in the novel, Vox?

The men of the Pure Movement attempt to control the women by limiting the number of words they can speak. The original units give the women a shock when they speak more than 100 words each day. The newer models punish the women by docking them ten words each time they blaspheme or use foul language. Women are also required to read the beliefs of the Pure Movement into the new model counters each day. It appears the leaders hope the women will internalize these rules by frequent repetition.