Define nonverbal communication and explain how these concepts relate to our interactions with others

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Nonverbal communication is the transfer of information between persons without the use of words. It includes not only visual cues (gestures, appearances) but also vocal features (inflection, volume, pitch) and environmental factors (use of space, position) that affect meanings. Facial expressions, head movements, body positions, and other gestures carry as much of the total meaning of our communication with others as our spoken words do.

Head and facial movements may provide us with information about other people's emotional states, and others receive similar information from us. Our social interaction is regulated by nonverbal communication. Through our body posture and eye contact, we signal that we do or do not wish to speak to someone. Nonverbal communication establishes the relationship among people in terms of their responsiveness to and power over one another. Facial expressions, especially smiles, also reflect gender-based patterns of dominance and subordination in society. Eye contact can be a sign of domination or deference. Touching is another form of nonverbal behavior that has many different shades of meaning. Physical space is an important component of nonverbal communication. According to anthropologist Edward Hall, personal space is the immediate area surrounding a person that the person claims as private.