Body Language / Nonverbal Communication

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What is Body Language?

Body language is an umbrella term for the major part of nonverbal communication in which physical behaviors, as opposed to words (verbal/linguistic communication), are used to express or convey a message or information. Typical body language categories are: facial expressions, body postures, gestures, eye movements, touch and the use of space. Body language is also called: "kinesics".

Unlike sign languages, body language does not have a grammar system nor is there an absolute meaning corresponding with a certain movement, so its meaning must be interpreted more broadly and it is insofar not a true formal "language". Interpretations of a particular behavior may vary according to the culture, country or region and time.

There is a controversy on whether body language is universal. Some of it is; a big part of it probably isn't.

Depending on what you include in body language, it is at least the largest part of of nonverbal communication or it's the same. It complements verbal communication in social interaction. In fact, nonverbal communication is believed to account for a large part of the information and emotions transmitted during interpersonal interactions, although it is more ambiguous.

Breakdown of Body Language Subcategories

Here is a comprehensive list of the existing subcategories of body language and/or nonverbal communication. Note that most of these can be used consciously (see: Impression Management) and inconsciously and voluntary and involuntary.

• Facial expressions (combinations of eyes, eyebrow, lips, nose and cheek movements)
• Head and neck signals (nodding, shaking, lowering, raising, tilting of the head)
• Body postures (sitting, standing, posture and movement of chest/shoulders)
• Gestures (movements made with hands, arms, fingers, head, legs)
• Handshakes (typically a greeting ritual)
• Breathing (deeper and slow versus shallower and more rapid)
• Oculesics (eye movement, eye behavior and gaze)
• Haptics (touching, handshakes, holding hands, back slapping, high fives, brushing up against someone, patting someone)
• Proxemics (spatial distances or zones between people as they interact: Edward T. Hall's famous 4 interpersonal zones: Intimate (< 46cm), Personal (46cm - 1,2m), Social (1.2m - 3,7m), Public (> 3,7m))
• Tone of voice (high/low, loud/soft, friendly/angry)
• Attitude (like/dislike, rapport with another person, formal/informal, mirroring and matching)
• Readiness (readiness to take action, agressiveness, physical or social readiness)

Forum Forum about Body Language. Micro-expressions are More Useful to Reading People from Different Cultures than Body Language Body language is used to express or convey a message or information. People have been trying to understand others' thoughts by observing others' body language. However, body language varies significan... 9   14 comments 🔥 Examples of Nonverbal Communication One good example of nonverbal communication and/or body language could be a PERSON CROSSING THEIR ARMS while someone else is talking to them. This nonverbal cue could indicate that the person is defe... 4   1 comments Usage of Nonverbal Communication. Application Areas Nonverbal communication and/or body language have several application areas, including: BUSINESS - Essential in business interactions, such as negotiations, sales, and networking. EDUCATION - Im... 3   Disadvantages of Nonverbal Communication. Drawbacks Nonverbal communication and/or body language have disadvantages, including: Can be misinterpreted or misunderstood, leading to confusion or conflict. Can be influenced by cultural differences, l... 3   1 comments Advantages of Nonverbal Communication. Benefits Nonverbal communication and/or body language have several advantages, including Help to clarify spoken messages and make them more understandable. Convey emotions and attitudes more effectively ... 3   Start a new topic about Body Language Sign up for free

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Expert Tips Advanced insights about Body Language. Here you will find professional advices by experts. Consultancy Tips Teaching Tips Practical Implementation Tips

Information Sources Various sources of information regarding Body Language. Here you will find powerpoints, videos, news, etc. to use in your own lectures and workshops. Body Language Tips Giving Presentations, Public Speaking, Nonverbal Communication Communication Coach Alex Lyon talks about giving presentations and public speaking. Non verbal communication and body la... Communication Essentials: Non-verbal, Verbal and Listening Skills Communication Skills, Personal Skills, Confidence, Power, Influence, Sincerity, Trust Presentation about communication skills, including non-verbal and verbal communication and listening skills. The present... Facial Expressions: Expressions of our DNA Media, Mirroring, Facial Expressions Dr. David Matsumoto of San Francisco State researched photos of blind and sighted athletes at the 2004 Olympic and Paral... 3 Communication Forms and Their Relevance Communication, Body Language Good communication skills are a key asset for success in business and life. Face to face communication can take place in...

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Compare with: Persuasion Techniques  |  Impression Management  |  Johari Window  |  Forced Compliance  |  Cognitive Dissonance  |  Mirroring and Matching

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