Communication :
1. Definition of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication is the process of conveying messages and creating meaning without
spoken words. It includes gestures, facial expressions, body movements, eye contact, posture, space,
touch, and even silence. It can be intentional or unintentional, and it plays a significant role in daily
interactions.
2. Verbal vs. Nonverbal Communication
Similarities:
• Both are guided by rules and cultural norms.
• Both are symbolic, using signs that have shared meaning.
• Both can be intentional or unintentional.
Differences:
• Nonverbal communication is often more honest.
• It uses all five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell).
• It is continuous (it never stops), unlike verbal which has a clear beginning and end.
3. Theory of Nonverbal Coding Systems
According to Judee Burgoon, nonverbal coding systems are groups of behaviors that:
• Are analogic (continuous, like a smile that varies in intensity).
• Can be iconic (visually resemble what they represent, like a thumbs up).
• Sometimes have universal meanings (e.g., crying).
• Allow multiple messages to be sent at once.
• Can trigger automatic responses (e.g., a handshake).
• Are often spontaneous.
They can repeat, complement, contradict, substitute, or regulate verbal messages.
4. Types of Nonverbal Coding Systems
a. Proxemics (Use of Space)
• Intimate (0–18 inches): e.g., hugging.
• Personal (18 inches – 4 ft): e.g., talking with friends.
• Social (4–12 ft): e.g., work meetings.
• Public (12+ ft): e.g., public speaking.
Cultural norms affect how people use space.
b. Haptics (Touch)
• Touch varies by culture, gender, context, and relationship.
• Appropriate touch can build connection, but misuse can lead to discomfort or even
harassment.
• Includes nonverbal immediacy—signals of closeness.
• Linked to Expectancy Violation Theory: unexpected behavior draws attention and can
be judged positively or negatively based on context and relationship.
c. Chronemics (Use of Time)
• Communicates values and priorities (e.g., being on time shows respect).
• Monochronic cultures (like the U.S.) prefer one task at a time.
• Polychronic cultures (like some European countries) accept multitasking and flexible
schedules.
d. Kinesics (Body Movement)
• Includes gestures, posture, and facial expressions.
• Gesticulations:
• Emblems (replace words, e.g., nodding for “yes”),
• Adaptors (habitual movements, like hair twirling),
• Illustrators (emphasize speech),
• Affect displays (show emotion),
• Regulators (control conversation flow).
e. Vocalics (Paralanguage)
• Non-word sounds such as tone, pitch, laughter, sighs.
• Vocal cues express emotion and personality.
f. Oculesics (Eye Behavior)
• Eye contact communicates trust, interest, and emotion.
• Avoiding eye contact can suggest dishonesty, anxiety, or submission.
g. Facial Expressions
• Reflect emotions like happiness, anger, sadness.
• Often involuntary, making them more truthful.
h. Physical Appearance
• Includes dress, body type, hairstyle, hygiene.
• Influences first impressions, attractiveness, and professionalism.
• Raises ethical questions about bias (e.g., judging someone for tattoos or body size).
i. Artifacts
• Personal items that express identity or values (e.g., wedding rings, sports jerseys).
• Can indicate group membership, lifestyle, profession.
j. Environmental Factors
• Aspects like lighting, color, design, temperature.
• Influence mood and communication (e.g., romantic candlelight vs. office lighting).
k. Silence
• Communicates respect, grief, resistance, or discomfort.
• Interpretation is culture-bound (some cultures value silence more than others).
5. Role of Nonverbal Communication in Meaning and Identity
Nonverbal cues shape how we understand each other and ourselves. They:
• Reflect values, relationships, and status.
• Help create and reinforce identity.
• Affect how others perceive us (e.g., clothing may indicate profession or personality).
• Influence social interactions even when we are not speaking.
Key Theories and Terms
• Framing: Structuring verbal messages using nonverbal cues.
• Expectancy Violation Theory: We judge unexpected nonverbal behavior based on
context and relationship.
• Nonverbal immediacy: Using nonverbal cues to show closeness and warmth.
