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5: Nonverbal Processes in Intercultural Communication
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5.1: Principles of Nonverbal Communication
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In 2015, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, involved in the Boston Marathon bombing, was sentenced to death after a trial focused on whether he should face life imprisonment or death. The jury's decision was influenced by character testimonies and Tsarnaev's demeanor, which appeared detached and unremorseful. The page further explores nonverbal communication, illustrating its importance and complexity across cultures.
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5.2: Types of Nonverbal Communication
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The page discusses various types of nonverbal communication and highlights their cultural variations. It covers nonverbal codes such as kinesics (including gestures, facial expressions, and posture), vocalics, proxemics, haptics, appearance and artifacts, olfactics, and music. Each of these codes communicates different aspects like emotions, power, or status and can differ greatly across cultures.
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5.3: Time and Space
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Chronemics refers to the study of time perception and orientation, distinguishing between monochronic and polychronic cultures. Monochronic cultures like the U.S. and Germany view time as linear and emphasize punctuality, while polychronic cultures such as those in Latin America are more fluid with time. Cultural spaces, influenced by architecture, also impact communication.
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5.4: Nonverbal Communication Challenges
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The Nonverbal Expectancy Violation Theory, developed by Judee Burgoon, suggests that individuals have culturally driven expectations about appropriate nonverbal behavior. When these norms are violated, it triggers reactions ranging from physiological to cognitive responses, with outcomes varying depending on factors like the severity of the breach and perceptions of the individual involved. These responses can differ across cultures, influenced by the context and local norms.