CH 5: Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
This weeks reading on non-verbal communication was very interesting. I feel as though sometimes our actions and expression speak louder then words. With that said, I find the concept of ‘the kinesic code II: facial expressions and eye behavior’ very interesting when reviewing the positive and negative effects these non-verbal codes can have on a listener. For example, have you ever viewed a speaker that had no non-verbal expressions? If so, you may have thought the speaker was boring or not interesting. However, if the speaker used facial expression and eye contact the audience would feel more engaged in the speech. Eye contact and facial expressions are very important factors that help the speaker seem as though they are well prepared and confident in their message.
On another note, I found it incredible how Trenholm writes, that even blind children can develop similar facial expressions and some facial expressions can be understood around the world (p. 118). It is amazing that facial expressions and eye contact can such powerful impact between every human.
Have a Great Week!
Thanks,
Blondie
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3 comments:
I agree with your idea in that sometimes our actions and expression (non verbal communication) speak louder then words (verbal communication).
Just like you mentioned, if we communicated verbally without integrating any nonverbal communication, things would be very boring. I work as a Sales Manager and do many presentations. If I talked for 30 minutes without smiling, using my hands to explain things, and didn't answer questions without using expressions such as shaking my head or nodding my head, I think everyone would fall asleep! I believe that working in sales requires personality and charisma and without nonverbal communication, it's difficult, almost impossible to have those traits. It's hard to explain anything or answer questions without using nonverbal cues to help the person understand. For example, since I discuss aquatic therapy when I provide information to health care presentations, it is much more effective if I nod my head when I answer yes to if someone asks if the 92 degree water helps with arthritis pain management. Nonverbal cues such as body language and tone help to be convincing!!
I agree with you in that actions speak louder than words. Sometimes you can tell what a person is really saying, or really wants to say, through their nonverbal communication. If a person is slouching over and throwing down their arms you can understand that they are upset and aren’t excited about the situation they are in. On the other hand is someone is sitting upright and is really jumpy you would think just the opposite. Movies often rely on nonverbal communication for certain scenes. Because you can understand what is going on through the actions and movement of the people on screen, verbal communication is not necessary.
I totally agree- I think that eye contact and facial expressions speak so loudly in everyday conversation. If people do not look directly into the eye, people immediately think they are lying or somehow dishonest. I have seen speakers that didn't use many facial expressions, and they were not as engaging as more involved speakers. I think the reason I like Obama so much is because he seems like he has very direct, yet not intimidating eye contact when he speaks. Great post!
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