Camama, McJahn Miguel V.

GE05 - Purposive Communication

PCEIT-09-101A
Unit 2 Lessons 6 - 7 Summary

Lesson 6: Non-verbal Communication as Barriers

Nonverbal communication, which encompasses messages conveyed without

words, is a significant aspect of human interaction. In Western cultures, it is studied as a
language system, treating gestures and other nonverbal cues much like verbal symbols.
However, it's essential to note that not all nonverbal behavior constitutes
communication; true communication occurs when symbols, whether spoken or
non-spoken, are intentionally used to create meaning for others.

Nonverbal behaviors often serve as reliable cues for discerning a person's state
of mind, with some cues being universally recognized across cultures. People generally
understand nonverbal signals of pleasure, displeasure, liking, disliking, tension,
relaxation, and high or low status, facilitating cross-cultural interactions. These
nonverbal cues fulfill various functions, including replacing spoken messages,
conveying uncomfortable information, forming initial impressions, clarifying
relationships, regulating interaction, and reinforcing or modifying verbal messages.

Nonverbal communication encompasses a rich tapestry of dimensions that serve

as integral channels for human interaction and expression. Among these, proxemics
stands out as a pivotal element, delving into the intricate dynamics of personal space. It
unravels a fascinating cultural tapestry, revealing that different societies hold distinct
perceptions and practices regarding the proximity at which individuals feel comfortable
interacting. This subtle yet potent aspect can significantly influence the comfort levels
and the overall effectiveness of communication.

Kinesics, another vital dimension, encompasses a myriad of nonverbal cues that

include gestures, body movements, facial expressions, and the often revealing
language of eye contact. These elements form an unspoken lexicon, allowing
individuals to convey sentiments, intentions, and attitudes with remarkable nuance. A
simple nod, a raised eyebrow, or a hesitant glance can speak volumes, transcending
the limitations of verbal communication.

Chronemics, an equally intriguing facet, plunges into the realm of temporal

perspectives. It explores how different cultures perceive and value time, unraveling a
profound layer of intercultural communication. Some societies hold punctuality as a
sacrosanct virtue, while others prioritize a more flexible approach to time. This
discrepancy can, at times, pose a formidable barrier in cross-cultural interactions,
highlighting the critical need for mutual understanding and adaptability.

Paralanguage, yet another dimension, illuminates the nuanced artistry of vocal

expression. It encompasses the subtleties of pitch, intensity, and the various
vocalizations that punctuate speech. Laughter, a universal language of mirth, and
hesitation sounds like "um" and "uh-huh" carry their own eloquence, conveying
emotions and nuances that words alone may struggle to capture.

Silence, a potent but often overlooked mode of communication, holds profound

cultural influence. It can signify a myriad of emotions and attitudes, from contemplation
and respect to discomfort or disagreement. Cultures wield silence as a powerful tool,
weaving it into the fabric of their communicative repertoire.

Haptics, the tactile dimension, traverses the landscape of touch, which, like other
nonverbal cues, varies markedly across cultures. From a warm embrace to a formal
handshake, the spectrum of tactile interactions reflects cultural norms, personal
boundaries, and the nature of the relationship between individuals.

Clothing and physical appearance form another layer of nonverbal expression,

serving as a canvas upon which cultural heritage and individual identity are vividly
painted. Attire, hairstyles, and adornments communicate a wealth of information about a
person's affiliations, values, and self-perception.

Territoriality, a subtle yet potent dimension, delves into the concept of personal
space as a claimed domain. It explores how individuals establish and defend their own
territories, reflecting their need for comfort, security, and control in their environment.

Olfactics, the often overlooked dimension of communication through scent,

carries its own cultural significance. While less understood than other forms of
nonverbal expression, it holds the power to evoke memories, emotions, and cultural
associations.

In essence, nonverbal communication encompasses a mosaic of dimensions,

each offering a unique lens through which human interaction and expression are
filtered. Understanding and appreciating these dimensions empowers individuals to
navigate the intricate tapestry of human connection with depth and sensitivity. It is
through this multi-layered exchange that the true richness of communication unfolds,
transcending the confines of words alone.
Lesson 7: Language as Barrier

Language, a fundamental tool for human communication, operates through

shared symbols within a given community, enabling the conveyance of meaning and
experiences. It takes on various forms, encompassing spoken words as well as
non-verbal modes like American Sign Language. Moreover, language is intimately
entwined with culture, serving as a unifying force that mirrors the collective perceptions
and thoughts of a society.

In the realm of cross-cultural communication, the process of translation assumes

a pivotal role, especially when encountering linguistic disparities. Even within
communities that ostensibly share the same language, subtle variations in vocabulary
can present formidable hurdles. When dealing with entirely distinct languages, the task
of translation becomes not only essential but also inherently imperfect. This imperfect
nature stems from five distinct translation challenges that serve as formidable barriers to
achieving effective communication.

One such challenge is Vocabulary Equivalence, which arises when attempting to

convey nuanced meaning through direct, word-for-word translations. This often results
in the loss of subtle distinctions that exist within the original language. Idiomatic
Equivalence presents another hurdle, given that idioms and expressions possess
unique cultural nuances that may not easily align with their counterparts in another
language. This necessitates a thoughtful approach to convey the intended meaning
accurately.

Moving beyond vocabulary, Grammatical-Syntactical Equivalence further

complicates the translation process. Each language boasts its own distinct structure and
syntax, which can lead to difficulties in accurately transposing thoughts and ideas from
one language to another. This challenge requires a keen understanding of both the
source and target languages to navigate effectively.

Experiential Equivalence introduces another layer of complexity, particularly

when an object or experience lacks a direct counterpart in another culture. In such
cases, conveying the essence and significance of the concept requires creative and
culturally sensitive translation strategies. Finally, Conceptual Equivalence poses a
challenge when dealing with abstract ideas that may not neatly align across cultures.
This demands careful consideration and a nuanced understanding of the cultural
contexts in play.

Understanding the nuances of effective verbal communication involves

recognizing that language serves as a partial representation of reality. It encapsulates
objects, people, and events with varying degrees of precision. Messages, in turn,
encompass both factual information and inferences, necessitating a discerning eye to
differentiate between the two and prevent potential confusion.

However, it's important to acknowledge that messages can sometimes blur

distinctions, potentially fostering discrimination when we engage in broad
generalizations. Counter-acting this tendency requires the use of indexes, which allow
for a more nuanced and accurate representation of reality.

Polarization, another aspect of effective communication, refers to the inclination

to view the world in absolutes, often leading to oversimplification. Recognizing the
existence of middle ground is crucial in order to foster a more balanced and
comprehensive understanding of complex issues and situations.

Lastly, static evaluation poses a potential pitfall in communication. This

phenomenon involves retaining outdated assessments despite the evolution of
individuals and circumstances over time. To mitigate this, employing the concept of a
mental date proves invaluable, allowing for a dynamic and evolving perspective that
acknowledges the fluid nature of people and situations. This adaptive approach ensures
that our evaluations remain relevant and reflective of current realities.
References:

Chen (2012) The Impact of New Media on Intercultural Communication in Global

Context. Retrieved October 17, 2023 from
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1012&context=com_fa
cpubs

Retanan (2023) Thinking about Culture [PDF document]. College of Arts and Sciences.
Rizal Technological University - Pasig. Retrieved October 17, 2023

Retanan (2023) Dimensions of Culture [Powerpoint slides]. College of Arts and

Sciences. Rizal Technological University - Pasig. Retrieved October 17, 2023

Retanan (2023) Communication Theories in Intercultural Communication [Powerpoint

slides]. College of Arts and Sciences. Rizal Technological University - Pasig.
Retrieved October 17, 2023

Retanan (2023) Intercultural Communication, Ethics, and Competence [Powerpoint

slides]. College of Arts and Sciences. Rizal Technological University - Pasig.
Retrieved October 17, 2023

Redalyc (2019) Language barriers to effective communication. Retrieved October 17,

2023 from https://www.redalyc.org/journal/279/27962177008/html/

Solomon (2020) The Communication Dimension: A Key to Cross-Cultural Awareness

that Propels Business Success. Retrieved October 17, 2023 from
https://www.rw-3.com/blog/the-communication-dimension-a-key-to-cross-cultural-
awareness-that-propels-business-success
References:

Redalyc (2019) Non-verbal barriers to effective intercultural communication. Retrieved

October 17, 2023 from https://www.redalyc.org/journal/279/27962050034/html/

Redalyc (2019) Language barriers to effective communication. Retrieved October 17,

2023 from https://www.redalyc.org/journal/279/27962177008/html/

Retanan (2023) Non-verbal Communication as Barriers [Powerpoint slides]. College of

Arts and Sciences. Rizal Technological University - Pasig. Retrieved October 17,
2023

Retanan (2023) Language as Barrier [Powerpoint slides]. College of Arts and Sciences.
Rizal Technological University - Pasig. Retrieved October 17, 2023