Nonverbal Elements of Communication: Body Language

The Four Functions of Nonverbal Language

1. Nonverbal languagecomplements, or matches, verbal messages.

“That’s hilarious!”Nonverbal(s): smiling, laughing

(Kneeslapper.)

The Four Functions of Nonverbal Language

2. Nonverbal language emphasizes verbal messages.

“Do it now!”Nonverbal(s): pounding fist on desk

(Cruella pounding her desk.)

The Four Functions of Nonverbal Language

3. Nonverbal language replaces verbal messages.

“…”Nonverbal(s): nodding in response to a question.

(Stanley nodding.)

The Four Functions of Nonverbal Language

4. Nonverbal language contradicts verbal messages.

“Great haircut.”Nonverbal(s): rolling eyes, sarcastic tone

(Rolling eyes.)

Body Languagethe use of facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, posture, and movement to communicate

(Body language.)

Facial Expressions

Examples: winking, making eye contact, raising an eyebrow, frowning, smiling, sneering

Functions:

• Can help show a person’s feelings, either as a substitute or a reinforcement

• Can emphasize or contradict verbal messages

(Facial expressions.)

Masking: adopting facial expressions to hide real feelings (e.g. smiling to hide pain).

Eye ContactExample: looking the other person in the eye while speaking or listening

Functions*:

• Indicates honesty/sincerity

• Demonstrates intensity of interest in speaker

* Appropriate levels of eye contact differ according to culture.

(Eye contact.)

Gestures

Examples: nodding for “yes,” shrugging for “I don’t know,” pointing or gesturing to show size, shape, or length

Functions:

• Replace words

• Emphasize verbal meaning

• Add meaning to descriptions

(The Vampire Diaries Animated Gif.)

Posture

Examples: standing tall and sure, slumping in a chair

Function:

• Conveys attitude, such as confidence and poise or dejection and weariness

(Postures.)

Movement

Examples: walking with quick steps, dragging feet reluctantly

Function:

• Can enhance the impression you want to make or the message you want to convey

(Dragging feet.)

Using Body Language to Express Emotion

In your groups, complete the Body Language exercises on your handout. Each exercise will be timed; do not move on to the next exercise until I give the signal. During each exercise, you will record your observations. At the end, we will discuss your results as a class.

• Exercise 1: Gestures (3 min)• Exercise 2: Facial Expressions (5 min)