Nonverbal Communication in Human Interaction

Abstract: Nonverbal communication transcends spoken or written words and is part of the total, human communications process. Nonverbal communication may serve to repeat, contradict, substitute, complement, accent or regulate verbal communication. It is important for its role in total communication, the tremendous quantity of informational clues it gives in a particular situation and because of its use in fundamental areas of daily life. The text covers basic and developmental perspectives of nonverbal communication; the effects of the environment, personal space and territory, physical appearance and dress, physical behavior, toucing behavior, face, eye behavior, and vocal cues on human communication; and observing and recording behavior. Nonverbal skill development improves with strong motivation and desire for improvement, with added knowledge related to nonverbal behavior and with guided experience and practice.