Nonverbal Observation
Nonverbal communication is “the use of body language as opposed to the spoken word.” What that means is that our bodies give off messages when we are, or are not, speaking. When we do not pay attention to our body language, we may give off a message that we did not intend to give.
Emotions, especially, are revealed in our body language and can sometime contradict, or compliment, what we say. Nonverbal specialist and trainer Janine Driver always says: “you say more than you think!”
For this exercise, you are going to sit and observe speakers in a natural setting. What you will do is find a place and sit for 30-45 minutes and watch. You will observe three different conversations. Even if you do not hear what the speakers say, observe their bodies and attempt to interpret what their bodies are saying.
Are their bodies complimenting? Are they excited? Is someone angry? Is there an argument occurring? Can you see if people are attracted to each other or possibly in a romantic relationship?
Can you see the difference between men and women in their body orientation ? Can you possible tell if there is any other emotion in their body language ? What do you see?
In your observations, think of what we discussed in this module.
Look at their:
Kinesics (body movement, gestures, postures),
Oculesics (facial expressions…are emotions seen here?),
Haptics (touch…is someone touching another and how: hand on their arm, playful hitting, angry hitting, etc.),
Proxemics (how far or close are they standing or sitting)?
If you can hear them, is there anything in their vocalics (tone, pitch, volume) that says something?
Is their physical attractiveness (message relayed the way they are dressed) a part of their posture or gestures?
Even chronemics (time)…were they speaking quickly to leave the situation? In anything you see, what is your interpretation?
Instructions:
A minimum two-page, typed, double-spaced, paper in 12 point, Times New Roman or Courier font essay.
Format your paper using the correct APA style with cover page.
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