Chapter 12

Communicating Nonverbally Interculturally

Types of Nonverbal Communication

Body or kinesic behaviorPhysical qualitiesTouching behaviorParalanguage – volume, qualityProxemics – spaceArtifacts – perfume, clothing, etcEnvironmental factors – location Time

Characteristics of Nonverbal Communication

Noverbals are not pancultural; nonverbals do not carry the same meanings across cultures (217)

Signs and symbols may look the same (a “peace” sign use the same finger movements) but the meanings vary (a “peace” sign is not a “peace” sign in every culture)

Culturally Acquired and Socially Important

We learn nonverbals, unconsciously for the most part, through observation and personal experience (p 219)

People usually believe nonverbals over verbals if the differ

The importance and meaning varies due to communication situation

Functions of Nonverbal Behavior – Supports Verbal Communication

1. Repeat what is said verbally

2. Substitute for an oral message

3. Emphasize oral message

4. Contradict oral message

5. Regulate verbal message – nonverbal can act like road sign in a conversation: “slow down,” “stop,” “move faster”

Functions of Nonverbal Behavior – Conveys Emotion

Facial and bodily expression are more important than vocal expressions in terms of their contribution to the total message; tone of voice in particular as it is often spontaneous and believable (p 220)

Functions of Nonverbal Behavior – Suggests Immediacy

1. Approach message2. Availability for talking – proxemics, eye

contact3. Increased sensory stimulation4. Personal closeness and warmthAs immediacy increases, so does likingImmediacy plays an important role in

learning