Download Nonverbal Communication overview

COMM 229 - Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication includes all aspects of communication other than spoken or written words
themselves (expressed by other than linguistic means).
Mehrabian Equation
Verbal
Words
7%
+
Vocal
+
Paralinguistic
38%
Bodied
Kinesics
55%
=
=
Total Message Input
(Communication Exchange)
100%
Characteristics/Principles
1. One cannot, not communicate.
2. Nonverbal communication can be ambiguous.
 Meanings vary over time.
 Meanings vary according to context.
 Meanings vary according to relationships.
 Nonverbal communication is guided by rules particular to a culture.
3. Nonverbal communication can interact with verbal communication.
 Can repeat verbal messages.
 May highlight certain aspects of verbal messages.
 May complement words.
 May contradict verbal communication.
 Can substitute for words.
 Sometimes is more believable than verbal communication.
4. Nonverbal communicative behavior can regulate interaction.
5. Nonverbal communicative behavior can establish relationship level meanings.
6. Nonverbal communication reflects culture values and is culture bound.
Types/Categories of Nonverbal communication
 Kinesics-posture, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact (oculesics)
 Paralanguage-pitch, rate, volume, inflection,
 Haptics-touch (appropriate and inappropriate)
 Proxemics-space (personal and public)
 Environment-room shape, arrangement, access, lighting, noise, color, seating arrangement
 Presentation-physical appearance and clothing choice
 Artifacts-personal objects that reflect and announce identity; how we personalize our space
Guidelines to Improve
1. Monitor your nonverbal communication to increase the likelihood that others will perceive you and
your communication in the ways you intend.
2. Be tentative when interpreting others’ nonverbal communication. Qualify your
interpretations and the meanings you assign by considering elements such as context and the
relationship.
 Consider examples of how nonverbal communication manifests itself in organizational
communication.
 Consider what individuals can communicate with nonverbal communicative behavior.