Non-Verbal Communication
Introduction
Communication is vital to effective relationships. Effective communication has the power to build upon and strengthen existing relationships and establish new ones. There are different forms of communication that individuals use on a daily basis; most of which fall into two categories, verbal and non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication is a key aspect of communication and its use may be intentional or unintentional. Both the speaker and the listener use it, and many are not aware they are engaged in a form of non-verbal communication. Different genders and cultures use non-verbal communication differently and these differences can impact the nature of interpersonal communication. Non-verbal communication can tear down barriers or become a barrier to effective overall communication. As effective communicators, whether as speakers or listeners, it is important to understand the power of this form of communication and learn how or better use it to make our communication with others better.
Non-verbal Communication
Communication is an essential tool of human interaction. In everyday life we communicate in a number of various ways, some obvious forms are using telephones, texting, e-mailing, television, radio, internet, books and newspapers. Communication can best be described as, “the transfer or exchange of information between entities” (Khan, 2001, ¶1). Communication can be verbal or non-verbal; verbal communication requires the use of a formal language, while non-verbal communication involves, “codes of communication consisting of symbols that are not words, including non word vocalizations (The World Beyond Words, 2008, ¶1). Non-verbal communication can be deliberate or unintentional, and is continuous. It is used to replace or add sustenance to verbal communication and it often represents the speaker’s true feelings and thoughts.
There are many different forms of non-verbal communication. Kinesics, is concerned with body movements, such...
View Full Essay
