Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication or body language is used everywhere in
the world. It is very powerful means of communication, for it communicates much more than spoken words.
²One example of nonverbal communication is what occurs
between parents and child. When parents smile at their child, they communicate
love, acceptance, and reassurance. The child feels comfortable and safe,
because the smile signifies approval; therefore he or she is happy and well
adjusted.
³Another example of nonverbal
communication is the image a person shows in public. When a woman is walking
alone on an unfamiliar, possibly dangerous street,
and she wants to appear confident, she walks quickly although she may be tired. She walks with her
shoulders straight, head held high, and eyes are focused straight ahead. When
someone is looking at her, she returns the glance without hesitation. In contrast, a nervous
woman appears afraid if she walks slowly with shoulders and eyes down.
⁴Indeed, body language is a very strong method of communication
because it can express disapproval, anger, or love by raising an eyebrow,
clenching a jaw, or softening the eyes.