Understanding Nonverbal

CommunicationCommunication other than written or spoken

language that creates meaning for someone.

Why worry about Nonverbal Communication?

Over 90% of our communication is nonverbal.

Why focus on Nonverbal Communication?

Because Nonverbal Messages are...

• Primary means to show feelings and attitudes

• more believable than verbal ones

• Are critical too successful relationships

• Serve multiple function

Nonverbals can...

• substitute for verbal messages. (cupping hand behind your

ear... “I can’t hear you”)

• Compliment, clarify, or extend the meaning (say “Hello”

and wave)

• Contradict our verbal cues (more believable)

• Repeat our verbal messages (4th quarter)

• Regulate our participation (turn, move away)

• Reinforce our verbal (raise your voice, pound your fist)

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication• is culture bound

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication• is culture bound

• is governed by rules (appropriate behavior)

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication• is culture bound

• is governed by rules (appropriate behavior)

• is ambiguous (difficult to interpret accurately)

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication• is culture bound

• is governed by rules (appropriate behavior)

• is ambiguous (difficult to interpret accurately)

• is continuous (non-stop)

The Nature of Nonverbal Communication• is culture bound

• is governed by rules (appropriate behavior)

• is ambiguous (difficult to interpret accurately)

• is continuous (non-stop)

• is nonlinguistic (no grammar or pattern)

• is multi-channeled (variety of sources simultaneously)