Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Non COMMUNICATION
Non COMMUNICATION
Non COMMUNICATION
Page 1
INTODUCTION
we define nonverbal communication as any meaning shared through
sounds, behaviors, and artifacts other than words. Some of the
differences between verbal and nonverbal communication include the
fact that verbal communication uses one channel while nonverbal
communication occurs through multiple channels simultaneously. As a
result, verbal communication is distinct while nonverbal communication
is continuous. For the most part, nonverbal communication is enacted at
an unconscious level while we are almost always conscious of our verbal
communication. Finally, some nonverbal communication is considered
universal and recognizable by people all over the world, while verbal
communication is exclusive to particular languages.
Page 2
NON VERBAL COMMUNICATION
Non-verbal communication is communication by means of elements and
behaviours that are not coded into words. A glance, a star, a smile, a
frown, a provocative body movement - they all convey meaning.
Nonverbal communication includes all elements of communication, such
as gestures and the use of space, that does not involve words or do not
involve language. Porter has defined four aspects of non-verbal
communications:
Proxemics
Proxemics refers to the influence of proximity and space on
communication. The study of an individual's perception and use of
space, including territorial space, is called proxemics. Territorial space
refers to bands of space extending outward from the body.
Page 3
a. Intimate Zone: (touching to two feet): This space is
normally reserved for closest family and friends. In this zone, we
interact with spouses, significant others, family members and
others with whom we have an intimate relationship.
b. Personal Zone: (two to four feet): Family and friends may enter
this zone without causing discomfort. Friends typically interact
with this distance.
c. Social Zone (four to twelve feet): The person comfortably
interacts with others in this zone. Most business transactions take
place within the social zone. We prefer that business associates and
acquaintances interact with us in this zone.
d. Public Zone (twelve feet to as far as the person can hear
and see): This is the most distant zone at which communication
can occur. Most of us prefer that strangers stay at least 12 feet from
us, and we become uncomfortable when they move closer.
Lectures and other formal presentations take place within this
zone.
Kinesics
Kinesics is the study of body movements, including posture. Like
proxemics, kinesics is culturally bound; there is no single universal
gesture. Kinesics behaviour refers to body movements, such as gestures,
facial expressions, eye movements and posture. We often draw
conclusions regarding people's feelings about an issue, not only from
their words but also from their non-verbal behaviour, such as their facial
expressions.
Page 4
a. Facial Expressions: The face is a rich source of nonverbal
communication. The face often gives unintended clues to emotions
the sender is trying to hide. Although smiles have universal
meaning, frowns, raised eyebrows, and wrinkled foreheads must
all be interpreted in conjunction with the actors, the situation and
the culture.
b. Eye Behaviour: Eye behaviour are used to add cues for the
receiver. Eye contact can enhance reflective listening, and it varies
by culture. In India, a direct gaze indicates honesty and
forthrightness. Appropriate use of eye contact signals interest in
the other person.
c. Gestures: Some people use gestures extensively; others
communicate little through this channel. In India, the handshake is
a widely used gesture. People often use the handshake as a source
of information about another person's characteristics. A strong,
firm handshake is seen as a sign of confidence and enthusiasm.
Para language
Para language refers to vocal aspects of communication that relate to
how something is said rather than to what is said. Voice quality, tone of
voice, laughing, and yawning fit in this category. People make
attributions about the sender by deciphering (make sense of; interpret or
decode) para language cues. Rapid, loud speech may be taken as a sign
of nervousness or anger. Vocal tone includes pitch, loudness, rhythm,
rate, and clarity of speech. The standards for what is comfortable vary
from one culture to another.
Object Language
Object language refers to the communicative use of material things,
including clothing, cosmetics, furniture and architecture. A work area
adorned with expensive objects communicate high status.
Page 5
Territory
Employees' work areas are, in a sense, their territory. The way people
arrange themselves and others within their territory also conveys
messages. In a meeting or training session, arranging chairs in rows
signals that participants will be lectured to and encourages passive
behaviour. Arranging chairs in a circle signals that active participation is
encouraged. When interviewing or meeting with someone in his or her
office, a manager sends different messages depending on whether the
manager remains behind the desk or joins the other person in
comfortable chairs on the same side of the desk.
Physical Appearance
Aspects of personal appearance such as clothing, hairstyle, jewellery and
makeup communicate people's values and social group. In the
workplace, the norms for appropriate physical appearance depend on the
industry, job, and organizational culture. People who fail to live up to
these norms typically create a bad impression. Their physical appearance
is interpreted as meaning they either do not understand their role or do
not care about fulfilling it.
You should look for nonverbal cues as well as listen to the literal
meaning of a sender's words. You should particularly be aware of
contradictions between the messages.
Page 6
CONCLUSION
as one participant said, "We should be doing more for educators [...] to
assist them with developing these skills (tone of voice and body
language) and assist them with building their awareness for how these
Page 7
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Blatner, Adam. "About Nonverbal Communications
2. Givens, David B., Ph.D. "Home." Center For Nonverbal
Studies”
3. "Non Verbal Communication." Home :: Andrews University”
4. Buller D.B., & Burgoon, J.K. (1996). Interpersonal deception
theory. Communication Theory.
5. Knapp, M.L., & Hall, J. A. (2002)1980). Nonverbal
communication in human interaction (5th ed.)
6. Medlej, Joumana. "Emotions and Facial Expression."
Page 8