Nonverbal communication and culture. Identity, stereotypes and prejudices, страница 3

Functions of Nonverbal Communication

One point should be clear by now: nonverbal communication is multidimensional. That is to say, it involves a variety of messages that can be sent simultaneously. This multidimensional aspect is also seen in the fact that nonverbal communication often interacts with verbal messages. The interfacing of the verbal with the nonverbal carries over to the many uses and functions of nonverbal behavior (Malandro & Barker).  Let us examine five of those uses: (1) repeating, (2) complementing, (3) substituting, (4) regulating, and (5) contradicting. It is important to note that initially the dominant U.S. culture is described. Later we’ll discuss cultural differences in the use of nonverbal communication.

Repeating. People often use nonverbal messages to repeat a point they are trying to make. If you were trying to tell someone that what they were proposing was a bad idea, you might move your head from side to side while you were also uttering the word "no." We might hold up our hand in the gesture that signifies a person to stop at the same time we actually use the word stop. Or we might point in a certain direction after we have just said, "The new library is opposite that building." The gestures and words have a similar meaning and reinforce one another.

Complementing. Closely related to repeating is complementing. Although messages that repeat can stand alone, complementing generally adds more information to messages. For example, you can tell someone that you are pleased with his or her performance, but this message takes on extra meaning if you pat the person on the shoulder at the same time. Physical contact places another layer of meaning on what is being said. Many writers in the area of nonverbal communication refer to this as a type of accenting because it accents the idea the speaker is trying to make. You can see how an apology becomes more forceful if your face, as well as your words, is saying, "I'm sorry." You also can accent your anger by speaking in a voice that is much louder than the one you use in normal conversation.

Substituting. People substitute nonverbal communication when they perform some action instead of speaking. If you see a very special friend, you are apt to enlarge the size of your smile and throw open your arms to greet him or her, which is a substitute for all the words it would take to convey the same feeling. If a group of people is boisterous, you might place your index finger to your lips as an alternative to saying, "Please calm down so that I can speak." Or if you object to someone's behavior you might roll your eyes back as a way of "voicing" your disapproval.

Regulating. You often regulate and manage your communication by using some form of nonverbal behavior: you nod your head in agreement to indicate to your communication partner that you agree and that he or she should continue talking; or you remain silent for a moment and let the silence send the message that you are ready to begin to give the other person a chance to talk. A parent might engage in "stern" and direct eye contact with a child as a way of "telling" him or her to terminate the naughty behavior. In short, your nonverbal behavior helps you control the situation.

Contradicting. On some occasions, your nonverbal actions send signals opposite from the literal meanings contained in your verbal messages. You tell someone you are relaxed and at ease, yet your voice quavers and your hands shake. It also is a contradictory message when you inform your partner that you are glad to see him or her, but at the same time you are sulking and breaking eye contact. Because people rely mostly on nonverbal messages when they receive conflicting data, you need to be aware of the dangers inherent in sending opposing messages.

Nonverbal Communication: Guidelines and Limitations