Non-verbal communication Frida Gardberg 13.11.2004

Non-verbal communication Introduction to non-verbal communication Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication The universal use of non-verbal communication Non-verbal codes

Introduction to non-verbal communication in communication with others only 30 % of the communication is verbal, 70 % is non-verbal non-verbal communication involves gestures, facial expressions, eye contact … our non-verbal behaviour is mostly subconscious

Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication both are symbolic, communicate meaning and are patterned all societies have different non-verbal languages the non-verbal communication is more than just body language; the use of time and personal space, our voice etc.

Comparing verbal and non-verbal communication non-verbal communication is learnt through relations with others non-verbal behaviours can reinforce, substitute for or contradict verbal behaviour we often trust our non-verbal behaviour to reveal our true feelings

The universal use of non-verbal communication there is some universality in non-verbal communication, especially in facial expressions six basic emotions are communicated by facial expressions in much the same way in most societies: happiness, sadness, disgust, fear, anger and surprise but what causes the non-verbal behaviours can vary there are also variations in the rules for non-verbal behaviour

Non-verbal codes PROXEMICS how people use personal space; to keep someone at the right distance contact cultures and non-contact cultures KINESIC BEHAVIOUR body posture, hand gestures, facial expressions and eye contact CHRONEMICS the use of time M-time (Monochronic) and P-time (Polychronic)

Non-verbal codes SILENCE the use of silence in conversations HAPTICS the use of touching high-touch cultures and low-touch cultures VOCAL CUES rate, pitch, loudness, articulation, tone, accent, pronunciation etc. ARTEFACTS things, objects, decorations etc.

Conclusion misunderstandings can be avoided if we are aware of and understand our cultural differences non-verbal communication changes also constantly

And always remember: the more we know of other cultures, the greater the possibility is of a successful communication!

Thank you for listening!