How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
Non-Verbal Behavior
Explanations > Theories > Non-Verbal Behavior Description | Research | Example | So What? | See also | References
DescriptionThe communication without words. The face is used a great deal. Hand signals, shrugs, head movements, etc. also are used. It is often subconscious. It can be used for:
Non-verbal behavior also varies across cultures (such as the ‘ok’ finger O), although the six major emotions (anger, fear, disgust, sadness, happiness and surprise) are common across the world. Non-verbal behavior is commonly called body language. ResearchMehrabian (1971) found that non-verbal aspects were a significant part of communication, particularly when mixed messages are sent. Later studies showed the situation to be more complex, with percentages varying with the situation or even with individual things being said. For example, if a person is not moving, then words and tone take far greater proportion. ExampleTry the difference between listening to someone with your eyes closed and listening/watching with your eyes open. It is much easier to understand when you are watching them. So what?Using itRead the other person’s non-verbal behavior. Watch for changes in response to your communications. Also spot mixed messages for when the voice says one thing body says another—this can be a sign of attempted deception. Beware of popular myths about body language (such as crossing arms signifying defensiveness). Many such anecdotes are at best dangerous half-truths. Body language is most significant when they appear in clusters, at the same time as a significant event (such as being asked an embarrassing question) and when it is unlikely that the other person is trying to control their non-verbal behavior. Watch your own body language too for signs of what your subconscious is thinking. Be careful when controlling it, as this can lead perceived mixed messages from you. DefendingWatch your own and other’s non-verbal behavior. Use it to improve your understanding of what is going on, especially at the subconscious level. Make conscious decisions. See alsoExpectancy Violations Theory, Body language Mehrabian's communication study ReferencesArgyle (1975), Darwin (1872), Morris (1978), Pease(1981), Burgoon, Buller and Woodall (1996, Mehrabian (1971) |awa|gs| |
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| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
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