Overview
This lecture discusses the different types of verbal and non-verbal cues in communication, their characteristics, and their significance in effective interpersonal interactions.
Verbal Communication Cues
- Verbal cues use spoken words to elicit responses from listeners.
- There are two main types: direct cues (clear and explicit) and indirect cues (vague and implied).
- Direct cues state requests or needs explicitly (e.g., "I want you to wash the car").
- Indirect cues hint at the desired action without direct statements.
Non-Verbal Communication Cues
- Non-verbal communication relies on body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.
- It requires visual presence among communicators and is harder to interpret than verbal cues.
- Non-verbal behaviors can repeat, modify, or contradict verbal messages.
Types of Non-Verbal Cues
Kinesics (Body Language)
- Kinesics studies physical actions like gesture, posture, eye contact, and facial expression.
- Body movements like straightening posture can signal respect or attentiveness.
Gestures
- Gestures are physical expressions conveying meaning; three types are adapters, emblems, and illustrators.
- Adapters reduce stress or manage emotions (e.g., fidgeting).
- Emblems have shared cultural meanings (e.g., nod for agreement).
- Illustrators emphasize or clarify spoken messages (e.g., hand size gestures).
Facial Expressions
- Facial expressions convey emotions and social information.
- Genuine smiles engage eye muscles, while polite smiles do not.
Posture and Personal Appearance
- Variations in standing, sitting, and hand positions communicate assertiveness or interest.
- Leaning forward shows attentiveness; leaning back signals indifference.
Eye Contact (Oculesics)
- Eye contact regulates, monitors, and conveys information or connection.
- Social norms determine appropriate eye contact, which varies by setting.
Haptics (Touch)
- Touch communicates comfort, emotion, and connection.
- Types include functional, social, friendship, and intimate touches or hugs.
Proxemics (Use of Space)
- Proxemics examines personal space and its effect on communication.
- Edward Hall defined four zones of personal space influencing interaction.
Chronemics (Use of Time)
- Chronemics studies how time is managed and perceived in communication.
- Time expectations and punctuality differ by culture; biological rhythms impact communication.
Paralanguage
- Paralanguage refers to non-verbal vocal elements such as pitch, volume, and speaking rate.
- These elements affect interpretation, emotional impact, and perceived intensity.
Artifacts
- Artifacts are objects like clothing, jewelry, or accessories conveying identity and cultural meaning.
- Symbols (rings, religious items) communicate affiliation or status.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Direct Cue — an explicit, clear verbal message or request.
- Indirect Cue — a verbal message that hints at a request without stating it directly.
- Kinesics — study of body movements and gestures as communication.
- Adapters — gestures to manage emotions or personal needs.
- Emblems — gestures with specific cultural meanings.
- Illustrators — gestures that accompany and clarify speech.
- Oculesics — study of eye contact in communication.
- Haptics — study of touch as a communication method.
- Proxemics — study of space and distance in communication.
- Chronemics — study of time use and perception in communication.
- Paralanguage — vocal cues (pitch, volume, rate) that accompany speech.
- Artifacts — objects used to express identity and cultural affiliation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice using direct and indirect verbal cues in conversation.
- Observe and identify non-verbal cues in real interactions.
- Review key terms and their definitions for the next session.