1. Verbal and Nonverbal
Communication

2. Language is a system of symbols,
which are signs or words used to
define a person, idea, or object.

3. Words have multiple meanings…
Connotative
Denotative meanings meanings
 …consistent definition  …emotional response
 …definition in the  …attitudinal response
dictionary people have to it

4. Nature of Language
 Language is symbolic
 Words have multiple meanings
 Thought informs language
 Language is rules by grammar
 Language is bound by context

5. Functions of Language
Communication Communication
acquisition Competencies
 Learn words of a language  Express feelings
 Learn to use words  Express creativity
appropriately and
effectively in the context  Language as a form of
of the situation ritual

6. Nonverbal
 The process of  Sneeze
intentionally or
unintentionally signaling  Crying
meaning through behavior
other than words  Blush
 Snore
 Eye rolling
 Sniff

7. What is nonverbal?
 Gestures and body  Physical appearance
movements
 Space and environment
 Facial expressions
 Touch
 Eye behavior
 Time orientation
 Voice

9. Nonverbal Nature
 Nonverbal behavior is communicative
 Spontaneous and unintentional
 Ambiguous
 More believable than verbal communication

10. Attitude is communicated by…
 7% by spoken word
 36% by vocal characteristics
 55% by nonverbal behaviors
- Mehrabian and Weiner, 1967

11. Nonverbal Functions
 Can be contradicting of verbal message
 Regulating interactions, back and forth of
communication
 Creating immediacy
 Can be deceiving

12. Nonverbal influencers
 Culture
 Gender
 Mediated
 Ambiguous