Describe the multiple functions of nonverbal messages

What will be an ideal response

(1) Nonverbal cues can substitute for verbal messages. Someone might put up two fingers to order two drinks in a noisy restaurant. (2) Nonverbal cues can complement the meaning of a verbal cue. When someone makes eye contact and smiles at you when they say hello they are complementing their verbal "hello." (3) Nonverbal cues can contradict a verbal message. If your friend frowns while giving you permission to use his or her car, this person's messages are contradictory. The nonverbal message is the one we should believe. (4) Nonverbal messages can repeat the verbal message. This is typically done when the verbal message is not understood by the listener so the speaker repeats the message by using hand signals or head movements, etc. (5) Nonverbal cues can regulate a conversation. For example, a slight pause, eye contact, or saying "um." (6) Nonverbal cues can accent or reinforce a verbal message. When a person gives emphasis to certain words by saying them louder or softer, he or she is accenting the verbal message.

Communication & Mass Media

You might also like to view...

Last year, Lion Book House published Great Expectations as a children's book. They overlooked the fact that the protagonist's name wasprinted as "Peep" instead of "Pip" at several places

Thousands of copies were printed with this mistake. After numerous complaints, Lion Book House refunded the customers for all purchased erroneous books.Inattention to which process made Lion Book House lose credibility? a. Proofreading b. Copywriting c. Research writing d. Sentence structure

Communication & Mass Media

Conflict in a group appears during which of its stages?

A. norming B. storming C. conforming D. performing

Communication & Mass Media