Nonverbal Communication

Adler & Towne say that nonverbal communication involves messages without words.

So, this lesson becomes a continuation of the last chapter in that they both focus on the message part of the model.

Whole worlds of meaning can be created without words, just think of silent films. Ex. The Husband of IrmaEx. The Gambler

Some say that there are three message codes:-the verbal code=7% of message meaning-the body language code=55% of message meaning-the paralanguage code=38% of message meaning

What do you think?Ex. Yellow Stonie, my pup

Hall and the Silent Language

Anthropology and the study of nonverbal comm.

Hall’s three kinds of nonverbal:-Technical-Formal-Informal

Hall’s Iceberg:

Waterline: Formal NonverbalAbove waterline: Technical Nonverbal

Below waterline: Informal Nonverbal

Some Illustrations

Technical—Laws

Formal—Ms Manners

Informal--Distance

Characteristics of Nonverbal (NV)

A Review of Adler and Towne, but of course with Dan’s twist on things:

•NV exits•NV has value•Cultural-Bound•Primarily Relational•Ambiguous

Differences Between V &NV

•Single vs. Multiple Channels

•Discrete vs. Ambiguous

•Verbal vs. Nonverbal Impact

•Deliberate vs. Unconscious

Types of Nonverbal (NV)

Eye Contact

-participate or not-flow of control-interest

Body Movements-me and officers

ClothingDistance

-intimate distance--18” or closer-personal distance--3’?-Social distance--3’ or more-public distance--12’

Physical Environment-Vegas-Denver

Time-German home

Some Concluding Thoughts/Questions Concerning Nonverbal Communication

Do you think we can write a grammar of NV?

Do you think that we really gather the vast portion of the meaning of a message from the NV aspects? Any exceptions?

Do you think there are any universal nonverbal symbols?