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Concept Version 7
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Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal elements supplement the use of words to convey meaning during communication.

Learning Objective

  • Recognize the importance of the nonverbal factors involved in communication


Key Points

    • Nonverbal communication refers to meaning conveyed in the absence of words.
    • Voluntary nonverbal communication refers to intentional movement, gestures, and poses.
    • Involuntary nonverbal communication gives cues about what one is really thinking or feeling.
    • Regardless of what is said verbally, it is important to be aware of the nonverbal messages communicated through body language.

Terms

  • nonverbal

    Not using words; of communication such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language.

  • body language

    Nonverbal communication by means of facial expressions, eye behavior, gestures, posture, and the like; often thought to be involuntary.


Full Text

Nonverbal communication refers to meaning conveyed in the absence of words. Information conveyed nonverbally can be perceived through any of the five senses: sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. There are two types of nonverbal communication—voluntary and involuntary.

Voluntary Nonverbal Communication

Voluntary nonverbal communication refers to intentional movements, gestures, and poses. These include smiling, hand movement, eye contact, or imitation, and are generally intended to reinforce or clarify meaning being communicated verbally. These actions are made willingly and usually with conscious awareness.

Nonverbal communication

A police officer using nonverbal communication to indicate an action that needs to be performed.

Involuntary Nonverbal Communication

Involuntary nonverbal communication gives cues about what one is really thinking or feeling but may not be expressing in words.

There are many elements of involuntary body language that we use and experience commonly without being aware we are doing so. For example, many people will raise their eyebrows as one approaches them face-to-face as an indication of recognition, esteem, or surprise. If a person walking down the street encounters a stranger, then the chances are that neither person will raise their eyebrows. If they recognize each other, however, even if they do not greet each other, then eyebrows will likely raise and lower. However, if a person is known but not highly regarded by another person, the second person may not raise his or her eyebrows.

Involuntary nonverbal facial expression

Facial expressions of surprise, an involuntary nonverbal expression.

Involuntary nonverbal communication can betray one's true beliefs, feelings, or motives. When angry or upset, often someone's body language can communicate more intensity than their words alone. Similarly, when we perceive someone as being physically uncomfortable during a conversation, they are sending a message that may not be consistent with what they are saying.

Effective communication relies on being aware of nonverbal aspects of interactions with others. It is equally important to be aware of one's own nonverbal behaviors and be sensitive to how they may be perceived. For instance, maintaining eye contact when communicating indicates interest. Staring out the window or around the room is often perceived as boredom or disrespect. Another simple nonverbal technique to facilitate good communication is the act of mirroring. Mirroring involves mimicking others' gestures and ideas. This is especially helpful for making outsiders feel comfortable sharing ideas or for minimizing status differences.

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