j 42 sailboat for sale

  • J/Boats Home
  • Brokerage Listings

j 42 sailboat for sale

J/42 ARROWHEAD

Arrowhead is a wonderful cruising yacht with almost all systems and infrastructure recently updated to a high standard. Originally built for the J boat designer, Rob Johnstone, the manufacturer took special care to finish the interior with details usually found on much larger sailing yachts. As an example, you immediately notice the beautiful cherry interior with countersunk and bunged screw holes. The current owner has gone to great detail and expense to maintain the interior and exterior finishes to an "as new" level. This J 42, when in race mode, has had a history of outstanding performances. Hull #62 has competed in the 2015 Trans-Atlantic race (7th place), and every Newport to Bermuda race since she came out of the factory mold. (two 2nd place and one third-place trophy's) When you look at the interior fit and finish you don't see a race boat, therein lies what is special about Arrowhead. This yacht is outfitted for worldwide cruising with updated house systems, sails, and running rigging inventories. The yacht is optimized for ocean racing in double-handed mode, which makes short-handed operation easy. A two to one main halyard, two deep reefing points with Dutchman Sail Control operated from the cockpit, and a #3 headsail is all you need to sail at hull speed in 15 knots of true wind. While classic in profile and layout, the J/42 stepped into the future when considering structural strength, performance, ease-of-handling, stability, and sailing comfort. This progress is now available to the cruising sailor in a boat that handles like a 35 footer, with the solid feel and motion of a 50 footer. Arrowhead is fitted with a custom Jim Taylor designed keel which reduces displacement by 1,000 pounds and improves performance to weather by 5 degrees apparent wind angle. This further enhances the already excellent sailing characteristics and performance of the J/42 both on the racecourse, and when on a hard beat to weather while cruising The patented SCRIMP process pulls triple the normal vacuum-bagging levels to draw all the air out of cored hull & deck laminates and to draw a slow-curing resin into every void in a single step. It's a better and healthier way to build boats because toxic styrene emissions are eliminated. It offers higher strength (65% vs. typical 40% glass content) and a void-free laminate far superior to hand lay-up or chopper gun construction. The savings in weight is added to the bottom of the keel in the form of a lead bulb, shaped as an inverted wedge with a tapered tail aft. This is why J/42's center of gravity (CG) is so much lower than other cruisers. A low VCG means greater stability, which means better sail carrying ability. The greater sail area dampens the motion of the hull/deck/rig in waves. Pitch & roll create resistance to water flow around the hull and air flow past the sails. By reducing resistance, the J/42 sails faster and more comfortably. Sea kindliness, and how a boat handles the sea, also relates to how it handles the crew at sea and how the crew may subsequently enjoy interior amenities when arriving in port.

Make or Manufacturer

Length overall, fuel capacity, water capacity.

j 42 sailboat for sale

IJPE : 790.00 sq ft I : 50.50 ft J : 14.75 ft P : 46.50 ft E : 18.00 ft Working Sail Area : 790.00 sq ft

Manufacturer Provided Description The J42 is designed to fulfill two goals: Privacy for each of two couples when cruising, or ample space and convenience for one couple living aboard for an extended period of time. Sailing the J-42 is easy for one person, thanks to superb wheel response and a common-sense sail plan. J-42 balances well and sails upwind faster under mainsail only than some cruisers using both main and large genoa. A self-draining deck anchor-storage locker, behind the standard Lewmar electric windlass, is big enough for an anchor rode and a cruising spinnaker, ready-to-fly in a "snuffer" sock (two in inventory). A watertight collision bulkhead separates this locker from a spacious owners' stateroom with twin berths (convertible to an over-size double) The main cabin features exceptional joiner work in varnished cherry with cold-molded fiddles with fully paneled doors, and oval door trim. Vertical panels are hand-matched "grain" cherry with a durable hand-rubbed varnish finish. Two main settees double as sea-berths and are pitched outboard 5 degrees for secure sleeping at anchor. Stainless overhead grab rails are excellent handholds, drying racks, and lee-cloth anchors. The J-shaped galley is well-ventilated next to the companionway and features a recessed, deep, double sink in a Corian countertop. Five deck hatches over interior living spaces are mounted on the cabin trunk to permit use when sailing. Exceptional ventilation throughout the yacht is provided by four polished stainless Dorade intakes, 11 opening ports and hatches, and the dodger-protected companionway.

House systems are designed for extended cruising, and comfortable ocean racing:

-Refrigeration is a dual system, fully redundant, with independent feeds to the Seafrost plate featuring both an engine drive compressor and the 12V Tradewinds compressor. The box is customized with a deep freeze compartment and regular refrigeration compartment (frozen food Newport to England).

-A Force Ten 3-Burner North America Standard gas stove and 30L oven serve up gourmet meals for the entire crew, safely and easily.

-A Spectra Newport Watermaker features 8 GPH 12-volt performance which augments the 100 gallons of freshwater tankage divided into two 50 Gallon polypropylene white tanks. Variable speed quiet Marco water pump.

Webasto Diesel Heat with vents in both heads and cabins keep the cabin comfortable when extended the cruising season, or that chilly first night of the Bermuda Race.

New head assemblies in both heads, with the forward "ensuite" head featuring the Raritan FreshHead freshwater unit. H/C Shower units with pans and shower sump pumps in both heads. Holding tanks systems for both heads with deck pump-out access and manual overboard pump-out systems in place.

-All interior lighting converted to LED, with main cabin lighting featuring dimmer switches.

  • House AGM battery system upgraded to three Group 31 units for 345 AH of house power feeding a Mastervolt 2500 Combi Inverter/Charger. A separate Group 31 battery serves as the engine start battery and can be combined with the house bank for 460 AH of house power!! A Balmar 150 Amp Alternator with QuickCharge Regulator keeps the system easily topped off. Digital 12V panel with house system breakers. Bass 120V AC panel with house breakers and shore power and inverter interface.

Navigation Electronics Raymarine Axiom Chart Plotter (2) one at Helm one at Nav station - 2018 Raymarine Quantum Chirp Radar on radar aft mast - 2018 Raymarine Evolution Autopilot - 2018 EV1 Fluxgate ACU 200 Control unit

Raymarine ST 60 Wind Speed Depth Raymarine St to STng Converter - 2018 Raymarine Repeater Displays (I70’s (2), ST60 Multi’s (3), ST60 Graphics (2) Raymarine ST 60 Competition mast head wind unit and cockpit display Raymarine SR150 Sirius Weather - 2015 Raymarine AIS650 Dual Channel AIS – 2015 Raymarine Raystar GPS 130 – 2015 AIS/VHF Antenna Splitter to masthead Digital Yacht NavLink NMEA Wireless Router 2015 Spare VHF Antenna on Radar Aft Mast Spare AIS Antenna on Radar Aft Mast Tri Lens Radar Reflector on Radar Aft Mast Icom M710 SSB Radio (Decommissioned) Tuner and wiring installed Iridium Go Sat Nav Wireless Unit – 2018 Standard Quantum GX5000 VHF with Ram Mic for helm station – 2016 New Sony Bluetooth stereo and cockpit speakers – 45W per channel – 2018 22” ViewSonic LED Display with Displayport/USB/HDMI interface – 2015 Custom monitor mount and articulating arm for navigation station and main salon viewing - 2014

12 Volt and 120 Volt Electrical System Mastervolt Combi 2500 Inverter Charger – 2013 Mastervolt MMIC Power Management Package - 2013 Shore Power installation – 2013 Bass 110V AC Panel – 2013 Group 31 AGM House Battery Bank #3 at 345 AH – 2017 Group 31 Engine Start Battery #1 at 115 AH – 2017 Balmar 150 Amp Alternator – 2017

House Systems Sanitation hose – complete refit including check valves – 2013 New forward holding tank – 2016 New aft head pump assembly – 2020 New Fresh Water Head forward – 2018 New Shower Sump pumps – fore/aft – 2017 Fresh Water Deck Wash system with quick release fitting - 2016

New Spectra Ventura 150 Watermaker (8GPH) - 2015 New Spectra MPC Automatic control unit - 2015 Webasto Airtop 5500 Heating unit Marco UP/6E Variable Rate Fresh Water Pump – 2020 New Hot water system – engine and 110V – 2016 Seafrost Tradewinds 12V refrigeration compressor with discreet plate plumbing - 2014

Interior Replaced entire cabin sole. Sealed and varnished both sides – 2017 Bilges refit and gel coated – 2017 Aluminum mast step IBeam refit, recoated, painted - 2017 Keel bolt spring washer plates manufactured and installed - 2017 Limber holes cleaned and enlarged in stringers - 2017 New Shower pan in forward head – 2017 Major interior refinishing with rubbed effect varnish – 2017 New Interior Cushions – S & S Fabrics – 2020

Sails: (All Doyle unless otherwise noted) Main Sails 2015 DP BX25 Ocean Racing Main with upper adjustable batens 2012 Stratis Ocean Racing Main with upper adjustable battens 2007 Stratis racing main, Kevlar with taffeta both sides 2005 Dacron main – delivery and cruising (never used)

Head Sails 2018 Stratis Ocean 130% #2 with re-enforced luff at 100% rollup 2015 DP BX20 110% #3 with Roller Battens 2014 DP BX20 135% #2 2010 #3 with horizontal battens (brand new never used) 2009 155% Med – Hvy #1 genoa 2008 #4 high cut jib (roller furls) 2007 148% Kevlar roller furl genoa 2007 138% Kevlar genoa 2007 130% Kevlar genoa with taffeta 2006 148% jib top roller furl

Down Wind 2016 Windseeker 2010 Code Zero with Profurl Single line Furler 2010 Asymm re-paneled 2010 (UK) 2008 Asymm Runner with sock Assembly 2007 Symmetrical spinnaker (used less than 1 hour) 2007 130% wind seeker

Storm Sails 2006 Storm jib (orange) 2002 Storm Trysail Sail Handling Two Sail Covers – one for Lazy Jacks and one for Dutchman Dutchman Assembly BX25 Main – 2018 Lazy Jack Assembly three other Mains - 2012

Rigging New Standing Rod Rigging 2015 New Running Rigging – Halyards, Sheets, Car Lines, etc 2018-2020 Hall Carbon Fiber Mast completely refit at Hall/Bristol - 2015 Hall Boom and Rod Vang Goosenecks replaced - 2015 Complete mast and boom rig painted – 2016 Harken Mk III furling unit refit with new luff assembly 2015 Code Zero/ LRH custom stainless tack assembly on stem head - 2020 Selden removable sprit for Spinnaker Tack - 2015 New Shuster Rudder Bearings - 2013

Canvas New Dodger – S&S Fabrics - 2020 New Bimini - S&S Fabrics - 2020 New Cockpit Cover Connector - 2020 Racing Sprayhood – White Stamoid - 2015 Cabin Sole and Companionway Covers – Two Sets Sunbrella Boom Tent - 2012 Main Salon Table Cover - 2012 Cockpit Table Cover Canvas Bookshelf Enclosures – Port and Strbrd Main Salon - 2012

Hull, Deck and Topsides Deck completely ground down to eliminate cosmetic crazing and refinished with new gel coat sprayed on. See pics. Every port, hatch, and all deck hardware removed during this process – re-bedded – and refastened – 2013 Topsides painted and clear coated with Awlgrip and Awlcraft - 2014 - Stars and stripes blue Both large main deck hatches replaced – 2016 Bottom Stripped – faired – painted – 2016 (Vivid Petit white) Jim Taylor designed keel – 2009 Enhanced performance(removed 1000 lbs from the total weight) Bilges refit and gel-coated while cabin sole was out of the boat – 2017 Aluminum mast step IBeam refit, recoated, painted – 2017 (This was all cosmetic but easy to do when the cabin sole was removed) Keel bolt spring washer plates re-manufactured and re-installed - 2017 Limber holes cleaned and enlarged in stringers - 2017 Chainplates removed and re-bedded – 2014 New Lewmar Concept 2 Windlass – 2018 New Vulcan 15 anchor - 2018 Carbon wheel 2010

Machinery Yanmar 1000 hour service (valves, injectors, pumps, seals, etc.) 2018 New motor mounts 2018 Exhaust elbow boiled and serviced 2018 Shark Teeth line cutter on prop shaft 2015 Varifold 3 blade folding 18” prop – low drag – 2014 New Morse single lever control at pedestal - 2016 New Teflex throttle and transmission cables - 2016

Safety and Docking Equipment Fully ISAF compliant:

Fully ISAF/NBR offshore race compliant Two EPIRBs – one Mcmurdo 406 and one ACR Cat2 406 Four-Man Offshore Life raft Gale Rider Storm Drogue – ISAF/NBR Emergency Steering Compliance Fire Mat in the galley Electric horn on aft mast – Air Horn in the companionway Knife in a sheath at helm and mast Mom 8 on Stern Rail Handheld VHF with GPS and DSC Capability VHF with full DSC capability and Ram mic at helm Jack Lines with glow in the dark filament 6 – Mustang inflatable PFD’s with Harnesses and Tethers Throw Rope attached to the stern rail Two-piece companionway ISAF board with internal and external locking capability One-piece companionway Plexiglas companionway board Wooden plugs attached to all thru-hulls Two manual bilge pumps – one at the helm and one in aft head with handles attached Three fire extinguishers Orange Storm Jib with Sheets attached Orange Storm TrySail with Sheet attached and separate track on the mast Carbon fiber whisker pole with cover stores on stanchion bases Two 5/8” 30’ bow and stern lines Two 5/8” 40’ Spring lines Four spare 5/8” dock lines Three inflatable Avon fenders with covers and lines One horizontal large fender with lines

j 42 sailboat for sale

Follow This Boat

fbPixel

  • Boats for Sale

New and used J Boats J42 for sale

  • J Boats J42
  • United States

J Boats J42

Find your perfect J Boats J42 today. We have J Boats J42 brokers and sellers from around the world at great prices.

Sign up to our newsletter

By submitting this form, you agree to our Privacy & Cookie Policy

Change units of measure

This feature requires cookies to be enabled on your browser.

Show price in:

Show lengths, beam and draft in:

Show displacement or weight in:

Show capacity or volume in:

Show speed in:

Show distance in:

British Marine

MarineSource.com

Boats for Sale

42' j-boats j42 racers and cruisers.

42' J-Boats J42

ARCHIVED: This is a previously listed vessel and is no longer offered for sale If you would like assistance locating a similar vessel, Click Here to contact the listing broker.

Hull #1 Originally built for Bob Johnstone  (J Boats owner) as his demo boat

Pre-sale hull survey available for qualified buyers

While classic in profile and layout, J/42 steps into the future when considering structural strength performance, ease-of-handling, stability and sailing comfort. This progress is now available to the cruising sailor in a boat that handles like a 35 footer with the solid feel and motion of a 50 footer. When a gust of wind hits the J/42 it's as though someone pushed forward the throttles on a Concorde jet. Slicing though waves, there's little fuss. A slight lift of the bow over a wave is rapidly dampened. There is none of the three-dimensional pitch and roll often accepted as a rigor of cruising.

The patented SCRIMP process pulls triple the normal vacuum-bagging levels to draw all the air out of cored hull & deck laminates and to draw a slow-curing resin into every void in a single step. It's a better and healthier way to build boats because toxic styrene emissions are eliminated. It offers higher strength (65% vs. typical 40% glass content) and a void-free laminate far superior to hand lay-up or chopper gun construction. The savings in weight is added to the bottom of the keel in the form of a lead bulb, shaped as an inverted wedge with a tapered tail aft. This is why J/42's center of gravity (CG) is so much lower than other cruisers.

Sailing J/42 is easy for one person, thanks to superb wheel response and a common-sense sail plan. J/42-balances well and sails upwind faster under mainsail only (over 6 knots) than some cruisers using both main and large Genoa. Since a mainsail is the easiest of any sail to operate: there's less need for expert crews no need to reef when it blows 25 knots; and, visibility is greatly improved. A 100% jib is all one needs for cruising upwind at 7.2 knots. You get an added bonus of better visibility and there's little need for grinding of winches. When you sail a J/42 you soon learn that progress in yacht design and construction makes a big difference in your sailing enjoyment.

The Ideal Cruising Interior The J/42 interior is designed to fulfill two goals: Privacy for each of two couples when cruising or ample space and convenience for one couple living aboard for an extended period of time.

From bow to stern: A self-draining deck anchor storage locker, behind the standard Lewmar electric windlass, is big enough for an anchor rode and cruising spinnaker, ready-to-fly in a ''snuffer" sock. A fore peak bulkhead separates this locker from a spacious owners stateroom with twin berths (convertible to an over-size double) and ample drawer, bin, cabinet & hanging locker space to store a permanent on board wardrobe. The forward head /shower combination is private to the forward stateroom. The aft head serves multiple needs: it's ideally located for use at sea; as a wet hanging locker; as a private head for guests; and as a "separate shower" when there are no guests. Interior styling features bulkheads with exceptional joiner work in varnished cherry with cold-molded fiddles and door trim - a detail that's rarely seen, because of the tooling expense, in "one-off' custom construction. Hull lining slats, cabinets and drawers are also in varnished cherry.

Two 6' 6'' main settees double as sea-berths and are pitched outboard 5 degrees for secure sleeping at anchor. Stainless overhead grab rails are excellent handholds, drying racks and lee-cloth anchors. The cherry drop-leaf table is ruggedly built for security in a seaway. It's arranged away from the bulkhead, so guests aren't "trapped" during dinner. An optional bulkhead fold-down table is also available. The "J" galley is well ventilated next to the companionway and features a recessed, deep, double sink. Unique is the combination cutting board, serving tray and drop-in galley seat for easier meal preparation at sea. A Force 10 stainless LPG range has both broiler & oven. There is flip-panel access to a tall trash bin.

  • Specifications
  • Description

New in 2010:

North Sails  Nordac Radian Full Batten Main

North Sail Nordac Radian #1 100% Jib

North Sails G-AP2 Norlon 75 Gennaker 

Sails that came with the boat:

Shore Storm Jib

Doyle Storm Try Sail

Shore Storm Try sail

 Roller furler head stay Furlex

Primary 2 Lewmar 50

Secondary 2 Lewmar 40

Service 2 Lewmar 44

 Hall rigid boom vang

Sailtec hydraulic back stay adjuster

5 Gallon water heater 120 volt and engine preheat

1. 3 BURNER FORCE 10 gimballed stove 

2.  Ice box with 2009 Seafrost engine driven refrigeration 

GPS Raymarine E80

Garmin GPS Map 182C

VHS Radio Icom IC-M504

Radar 2 kw Raydome

B&G h1000 with B&G linear drive

B&G Wind

3 B&G H1000 Displays 

Command mic for VHF

 B&G Fathometer

 B&G Knot meter

1. 3 Group 31 house batteries ; 360 amp-hrs (2008)  2. 1 Group 31 starter battery on separate circuit (2008) 

 GROUND TACKLE, SAFETY, ETC 

45 lb Delta primary anchor w/25 ft 3/8 chain,250 ft 5/8 3 strand rode  3.Cone drogue  Lemar electric windlass  Winslow ultralight 4 person offshore life raft in hard case (fits in stern locker) (2009) 

  • 47 HP Yanmar
  • 3 blade MAX prop
  • Racor primary  filters

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Contact Tim Kohl

[email protected]   203.233.9709

Connecting with Marinesource.com

facebook

Copyright 1992-2024 MarineSource Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

essay questions on nonverbal communication

Pitchgrade

Presentations made painless

  • Get Premium

113 Nonverbal Communication Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Nonverbal communication is a crucial aspect of human interaction, as it can convey just as much information as verbal communication. From facial expressions to body language, nonverbal cues can reveal a person's emotions, intentions, and attitudes. In this article, we will explore 113 nonverbal communication essay topic ideas and provide examples to help you better understand this fascinating form of communication.

  • The importance of nonverbal communication in everyday interactions
  • How facial expressions can convey emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, and surprise
  • The role of eye contact in nonverbal communication
  • How body language can reveal a person's confidence, nervousness, or discomfort
  • The impact of gestures on communication, such as waving, pointing, or nodding
  • Cultural differences in nonverbal communication practices
  • Gender differences in nonverbal communication styles
  • The use of touch as a form of nonverbal communication
  • How proxemics, or the use of personal space, can affect communication dynamics
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on forming first impressions
  • The role of nonverbal communication in building trust and rapport
  • Nonverbal communication in romantic relationships
  • How nonverbal cues can be used to detect deception or dishonesty
  • The impact of technology on nonverbal communication
  • The use of nonverbal communication in leadership and management
  • Nonverbal communication in negotiation and conflict resolution
  • The role of nonverbal communication in public speaking and presentations
  • How nonverbal cues can enhance or detract from a message's effectiveness
  • The influence of nonverbal communication on customer service interactions
  • The use of nonverbal communication in marketing and advertising
  • The role of nonverbal communication in job interviews and hiring decisions
  • How nonverbal cues can affect perceptions of power and authority
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on interpersonal relationships
  • Nonverbal communication in healthcare settings, such as doctor-patient interactions
  • The use of nonverbal cues in educational settings, such as teacher-student communication
  • Nonverbal communication in sports and athletic performance
  • The role of nonverbal communication in law enforcement and security
  • How nonverbal cues can influence voting behavior and political decisions
  • The use of nonverbal communication in social media and online interactions
  • Nonverbal communication in virtual environments and video conferencing
  • How nonverbal cues can be misinterpreted or misunderstood
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on mental health and well-being
  • Nonverbal communication in non-human animals, such as primates or birds
  • The use of nonverbal cues in storytelling and narrative communication
  • How nonverbal communication can enhance cross-cultural understanding and empathy
  • The role of nonverbal communication in building inclusive and diverse communities
  • Nonverbal communication in improvisational theater and performance art
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on music and dance performances
  • The use of nonverbal communication in therapy and counseling
  • How nonverbal cues can affect learning and memory retention
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on creativity and innovation
  • Nonverbal communication in disaster response and emergency situations
  • The role of nonverbal cues in environmental conservation and sustainability efforts
  • How nonverbal communication can promote social justice and activism
  • The use of nonverbal cues in conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives
  • Nonverbal communication in storytelling and oral traditions
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on social norms and etiquette
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on self-esteem and self-perception
  • Nonverbal communication in religious and spiritual practices
  • The role of nonverbal cues in building community and social connections
  • How nonverbal communication can foster empathy and compassion
  • The use of nonverbal cues in nonverbal communication training and education
  • Nonverbal communication in journalism and media reporting
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on mental health stigma and discrimination
  • Nonverbal communication in conflict-affected and post-conflict settings
  • The role of nonverbal cues in intergenerational communication
  • How nonverbal communication can promote interfaith dialogue and understanding
  • The use of nonverbal cues in disaster preparedness and response
  • Nonverbal communication in the criminal justice system and legal proceedings
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on social media activism and advocacy
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on body image and self-acceptance
  • Nonverbal communication in community organizing and grassroots movements
  • The role of nonverbal cues in microaggressions and covert discrimination
  • How nonverbal communication can promote environmental conservation and sustainability
  • The use of nonverbal cues in promoting mental health awareness and support
  • Nonverbal communication in political campaigns and advocacy efforts
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on workplace culture and organizational behavior
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on social media influencers and online personalities
  • Nonverbal communication in disaster response and recovery efforts
  • The role of nonverbal cues in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace
  • How nonverbal communication can foster empathy and understanding in healthcare settings
  • The use of nonverbal cues in promoting mental health literacy and awareness
  • Nonverbal communication in promoting social justice and equity in education
  • The influence of nonverbal cues on interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on body language and self-expression
  • Nonverbal communication in promoting environmental conservation and sustainability efforts
  • The role of nonverbal cues in promoting mental health awareness and support

In conclusion, nonverbal communication is a powerful tool that can enhance our understanding of human behavior and interactions. By exploring these 113 nonverbal communication essay topic ideas and examples, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness of this form of communication. Whether you are studying communication, psychology, sociology, or any other related field, nonverbal communication is a fascinating area of study that can offer valuable insights into our social interactions and relationships.

Want to research companies faster?

Instantly access industry insights

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Leverage powerful AI research capabilities

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2024 Pitchgrade

Importance of Non-Verbal Communication Essay Example

  • To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
  • As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
  • As a template for you assignment

Significance of Nonverbal Communication

Features of nonverbal communication, forms of nonverbal communication, samples of nonverbal communication, nonverbal communication concept, nonverbal communication at the workplace, reference list.

Wondering how to write an essay about the importance of non-verbal communication and how it affects workplace relationships? We’ve got your back covered! Check the non-verbal communication essay example below and get some fresh ideas for your writing.

In communication, a reasonable percentage of understanding is derived from non-verbal communication. This kind of communication works always. However, it is not always the case that one speaks before people can derive the thoughts of that person. A lot of these thoughts can simply be derived from gestures, signals, or expressions.

This kind of communication can be very effective if one sends the appropriate signals aimed at the right target (Abramovitch 1977, p. 82). This form of communication can easily be misunderstood if the wrong signals are sent to the recipients. Hands are significant in conveying non-verbal communication as they are used for gesturing. The facial expression and body language also play a big role in this form of communication.

It is possible to know someone’s private feelings simply by looking at that person’s facial expression. For instance if a colleague is not in a good mood, one will simply need to look for the nonverbal communication that that person portrays. For communication to be effective, attention has to be given to that which is communicated non-verbally, good examples being the use of space, gestures and body language.

Non verbal communication may differ according to different cultures and this may be the main cause of misinterpretation. There are cultures that take the nodding of the head vertically as an agreement while others take it as a refusal. There are those who would perceive a minors direct look into the eye as honest while others while perceive it as disrespect.

For one to mask feelings or spontaneous reaction to information, the attention must be paid to the nonverbal behavior. It might be easy for one to control his/her voice or words yet still that person’s body language, facial expression as well as movement can expose his/her real thoughts and feelings.

No matter the position that one holds at the place of work, the ability to interpret non-verbal communication adds to the ability of that individual to share meaning with others. This is because the shared meaning is what constitutes communication (Abramovitch 1977, p. 87).

To understand nonverbal communication, one needs to recognize that different people communicate on different levels. Every gesture usually communicates something and all that is needed is to pay close attention to it. If the verbal and non-verbal communication is not in harmony, it is more likely that the communicator will be lying or is of a different idea from that being communicated. It might therefore be reasonable for the listener not to pay attention to that person’s non-verbal communication.

Non verbal communication might play a significant role during a job interview as the interviewer will be able to deduce the kind of person the candidate is, as well as his/her strengths and weaknesses. During a criminal investigation, the non-verbal signals that are relayed by the person under investigation may be even of greater importance that the verbal statements that that person gives.

It might be easier for the investigators to determine if the person being investigated is lying, is hiding some information or if the person is speaking the truth. This will only be possible if the investigator understands and rightly interprets the non-verbal signals.

When one is issuing a speech the nonverbal communication relayed by the audience might of great importance in helping the speaker know if the audience is paying attention, if the people are bored, exhausted, irritated or when it is time for another speaker to take charge. Listening to them is very important if the speaker needs to be effective. If the nonverbal communication is effectively used while delivering a message for instance through speech, that message will be effective and memorable (Abramovitch 1977, p. 90).

Non-verbal communication is complicated and it may be challenging to understand its signals. This type of communication involves the whole body, the space occupied, the time taken, what is left out and how it is left out. Non-verbal communication flows from one to another and this makes it difficult single out one element and interpret it correctly from the series of other elements. This type of communication is constantly in motion just as human beings are and it does not replicate itself in the same place.

This kind of communication unlike the spoken or written communication is irreversible. For the written communication, the communicator might be in a position to clarify, correct or retract the message that is conveyed. For the oral communication, one is able to give an explanation or restate with the intention of clarifying the point. It is therefore possible to correct oral communication, as much as the original message remains with its impact as well.

It is not possible to separate a single non-verbal action from its context correct it and take it back. In speech, this kind of communication is always occurring and it becomes difficult to tell when a single non verbal message starts or stops and to exactly determine when the next one starts. The communication is only relevant in its context and if it is singled out then it might easily be misinterpreted and misunderstood hence leading to a wrong conclusion being drawn.

One usually expresses himself or herself first through the nonverbal communication always without even consciously thinking about it. This communication portrays ones feelings and thoughts way before the person becomes aware of it.

This kind of communication usually brings out the intentional as well as unintentional messages. It is common for people to concentrate on how someone says something than what that message is really. It is surprising that human beings use more non-verbal communication than the verbal one and in some cases this type of communication may add up or even replace the verbal one (Bull 1987).

Illustrators which are nonverbal gestures are used to communicate the message in an effective way as well as reinforcing the points. This could for instance be a node which confirms acceptance. The response to this may be in the form of an emblem, which may be by using the O.K. sign to signal.

Regulators which are nonverbal messages may also be used for controlling, maintaining or discouraging interaction. One the speaker is irritating the listener could for instance hold up his/her hand and the speaker will interpret it as a request to stop (Benjamin & Craidler 1975, p. 27).Regulators may also be used by the audience listening to a speech. They may for instance look away, make drawings at the book margins or tap their feet, and all these regulators will be representing boredom or disinterest (Kelly 1982).

Adaptors can also be used in the non-verbal communication and they help one to adapt to the environment hence ensuring that the communicator is secure and comfortable. A good example would be the hairstyle or a behavior that is self adaptive. One may also use object-adaptors to convey a message of disinterest for instance.

They may use an object for a different purpose to show disinterest. A good example may be when the audience starts chewing the backside of their pens to signify disinterest. All in all, non-verbal communications are universal. They be used differently by different people in different places or they may take a different form but they will remain to be non-verbal communications.

Nonverbal communication forms a basis for communicating emotional massages as people rarely express their emotions through the spoken word. Most of the time people express their emotions none verbally. This is contributed to by the fact that some emotions might not be expressed well or fully in the verbal form. It is very easier to deduce deception for a speaker by keenly observing the person’s non-verbal communication.

Such a person may for instance avoid eye contact, awkwardly pause during the conversation, and delay while responding to questions, changing body movement and posture frequently. They person might also smile less and reduce the rate of his/her speech. When such behaviors are noticed in the speaker, the listener(s) may be required to be a bit keener. People’s speech patterns speak a lot concerning the truthfulness in the messages being conveyed.

This type of communication is very significant in the relationship that exists between the speaker and the audience. When people meet for the first time, the first conclusions that are made about the different parties are usually derived from the non-verbal messages that are displayed (Scheflen 1964).

This is usually based on the dressing code, the physical characteristics and the posture. Nonverbal communication therefore affects the first impression made, for better or for worse. Assumed expectation is usually derived from the speaker’s maintenance of personal space, the dressing code as well as the physical characteristics right from the time the speaker meets the audience. As much as these expectations may neither be fair nor accurate, they always exist.

Controlling the verbal and nonverbal communication is important in forming a good rapport with the audience (Ekman & Friesen 1969). Maintaining eye contact with them, using space appropriately and being formal enhances this kind of relationship. Nonverbal communication is usually perceived to be part of the message and it has the capability to contribute to or lead to detraction from the overall goal.

It is believed that whatever is not said is just as significant as what is said. Words just form a section of communication. From a facial expression, it is possible to determine whether someone is happy, surprised, fearful, angered, disgusted, interested or sad. Interpreting nonverbal communication needs no special communication.

It may however require extensive training for one to be self aware of portraying nonverbal communication to others. Agreement between the two forms of communication enhances the establishment of a common understanding. A genuine and positive smile could indicate an agreement with an idea or a person.

The attire that is worn also plays a significant role in bringing out a nonverbal message. What someone puts on is what people call a ‘fashion statement.

A formal dressing code could be adapted while speaking in an official meeting. On the contrary, a casual code could be adapted if the message is targeted to people within an informal setting. Eyes have always been perceived to be windows to the soul. Maintaining an eye contact could be a show of interest or attraction, while disgust is indicated by an upward nose wrinkle and raising of the upper lip.

The element of time keeping also falls under nonverbal communication. When a speaker arrives at a meeting on time, and sticks to the stipulated time, it speaks a lot about that person.

It implies seriousness and commitment on the speaker’s side. It also says a lot about the gravity of the topic under discussion (Scheflen 1964). Culture plays a very significant role in any communication. In the case of nonverbal communication, culture determines what is and what is not allowed. Some cultures give room for lateness while others do not (Argyle & Kendon 1967).

Nonverbal communication just like the verbal one is a section of a society’s backbone. This kind of communication is necessary for helping people to coexist and build their own culture. For any communication study to be effective, one needs to grasp the basic concepts of not only the verbal but the nonverbal communication as well.

Most of the time, these two forms of communication occur together. The non verbal communication is usually composed of three major components which include; the one creating the communication, the communication itself and the recipient (Darwin 1872). There has always been a misconception that sign language falls under the nonverbal communication. This is however not the case as sign language is categorized under the visual language-based communication.

There needs to be a complementary relationship between the verbal and the verbal forms of communication. If not, then the result is confusion, disappointment and mistrust. Whatever is said must be complemented by the actions (Benjamin & Creider 1975).

Nonverbal communication is significant in the clarification and making the verbal communication to be well understood. Facial and hand gestures are used to illustrate whatever is communicated. It offers the cues that assist in ensuring that the message is understood.

This type of communication is important as it portrays one’s perceptions, beliefs and the person’s world view. They expose whatever is in a person. If one pulls back when a hug is offered it may signify that the person has an aversion to the physical touch which could be attributed to his/her past experiences (Argyle & Kendon 1967).

The non verbal communication plays a big role in affirming a message. For instance, verbal communication demonstrating how to use online purchasing tools could be affirmed by the speaker taking a computer and demonstrating the same to the audience. It helps in reinforcing the message.

At the workplace, violating ones personal space is a nonverbal communication that might be offensive. Slumping in a chair could be a sign of fatigue or an indication that the person is sad. Boredom at a meeting could be expressed through yawning while anger could be expressed by folding the hands.

Such clues can be used while encouraging someone positively respond when asked to do something. While at the workplace, it is possible to know the feelings of workers just by observing their body languages or facial expressions. This is significant I determining whether the workers are displeased or please either by the working conditions or the rules and regulations that are in place at the workplace.

Abramovitch, R., 1977. Children’s recognition of situational aspects of facial expression’, Child Development, Vol. 48. No. 4, pp. 77-98.

Argyle, M., & Kendon, A., 1967, The experimental analysis of social performance. in L. Berkowitz (ed.). Advances in Experimental Social Psychology. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Benjamin, G.R., & Creider, C. A., 1975. Social distinctions in non-verbal behavior.

Semiotica, Vol.14, No. 3, pp. 22-46

Bull, P.E., 1987, Posture and Gesture. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Darwin, C., 1872, The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. London: Macmillan Publishers.

Ekman P., & Friesen, W., 1969. The repertoire of nonverbal behavior. Semiotica, Vol. 1, No. 5, pp. 66-80.

Kelly, J. A., 1982, Social Skills Training: A Practical Guide for Interventions. London: Macmillan Publisher London.

Scheflen, A. E., 1964. The significance of posture in communication systems. Psychiatry Vol.27, No. 2, pp. 200-205

  • Social Effects of Telecommuting
  • Privacy and Technology: Avoiding Exploitation
  • The Meaning of Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
  • Importance of Nonverbal Communication to Children's Growth
  • Posture as a Non-Verbal Communication Element
  • Interpersonal Relationships
  • The Impact of Effective Communication Strategies on Interpersonal Relationships at a Workplace
  • International Management: Cultural Profiling of USA and India
  • How Communication Supports the Soncept of Community
  • Mobile Phone Communication and Development of Intimacy
  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, February 20). Importance of Non-Verbal Communication. https://ivypanda.com/essays/non-verbal-communication/

"Importance of Non-Verbal Communication." IvyPanda , 20 Feb. 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/non-verbal-communication/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'Importance of Non-Verbal Communication'. 20 February.

IvyPanda . 2019. "Importance of Non-Verbal Communication." February 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/non-verbal-communication/.

1. IvyPanda . "Importance of Non-Verbal Communication." February 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/non-verbal-communication/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Importance of Non-Verbal Communication." February 20, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/non-verbal-communication/.

teacherformation.org

How to write a nonverbal communication essay, nonverbal communication skills in face-to-face or in-person, the history of nonverbal communication, the impact of nonverbal communication today, nonverbal vs. verbal communication experiences, great leadership essay writing guidelines, how to write a university application essay, writing the best thesis statement, compare and contrast essay total guide, smart guidelines for a narrative essay, best tips for writing an essay, death penalty argumentative essay, how to write a ‘my neighbor essay’, restaurant review essay sample with tips, nonverbal communication essay topics and samples.

Nonverbal Communication Skills: 19 Theories & Findings

Nonverbal communication

In it, he introduces the concept of dramaturgy, which compares everyday social interactions to actors’ portrayals of characters, suggesting that one’s social interactions are analogous to a string of varying performances (Ritzer, 2021).

Goffman’s work also included the concept of impression management. The key to impression management includes appearance; your manner of interacting; and the attitudes conveyed through gestures, facial expressions, and nonverbal skills (Ritzer, 2021).

William Shakespeare said, “All the world’s a stage.”

I’m not a trained actor, but teaching public speaking courses has made me aware that audiences seem to prefer speakers who use a variety of hand gestures. These gestures signify the speaker as “warm, agreeable, and energetic” (Goman, 2021).

Just that nugget of information has taught me to incorporate hand gestures to develop my public speaking skills.

What other nonverbal communication skills enhance daily interactions?

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Communication Exercises (PDF) for free . These science-based tools will help you and those you work with build better social skills and better connect with others.

This Article Contains:

What is nonverbal communication, 9 types of nonverbal communication skills, is nonverbal communication important, 2 psychology theories and models, 8 fascinating research findings, importance in counseling and healthcare, resources from positivepsychology.com, a take-home message.

Nonverbal communication is a way to convey information “achieved through facial expressions, gestures, touching (haptics), physical movements (kinesics), posture, body adornment (clothes, jewelry, hairstyle, tattoos, etc.), and even the tone, timbre, and volume of an individual’s voice (rather than spoken content)” (Navarro & Karlins, 2008, p. 2–4).

In this YouTube video, Joe Navarro explains several nonverbal communication cues, exposes some myths, and discusses his work with nonverbal communication in law enforcement.

Marco Iacoboni (2008, p. 81), author of Mirroring People , takes it a step further, stating that “gestures accompanying speech have a dual role of helping the speakers to express their thoughts and helping the listeners/viewers understand what is being said.”

To competently read body language, Navarro and Karlins (2008) provide suggestions such as rigorous observation and a familiarity with the person’s baseline behaviors. They also recommend watching for changes, or ‘tells.’

Navarro and Karlins (2008) advise becoming familiar with universal behaviors and contextualizing nonverbal cues. However, cultural norms could inhibit rigorous observation.

Characteristics of nonverbal communication

The United States is considered a low-context communication culture (MacLachlan, 2010). This means that much of the information in a message comes directly from words rather than through implication or body language.

This style of communication involves lots of verbal detail so as not to confuse listeners. Low-context cultures rely less on nonverbal communication, which can obscure or censor portions of the message.

Nonverbal communication is culturally determined, and it is largely unconscious. It indicates the speaker’s emotional state. When nonverbal cues conflict with the verbal message, it may convey confusion or deception (Navarro & Karlins, 2008).

Finally, nonverbal communication varies by gender and displays power differentials, information effective leaders can use to influence others (Hybels & Weaver, 2015; Henley, 1977).

Nonverbal communication of successful leaders

It’s essential for leaders to read body language, also known as decoding. Deciphering between engagement (e.g., nodding, tilting the head, open body postures) and disengagement (e.g., body tilting away, crossed arms and legs) can be the difference between success and failure (Goman, 2021).

Successful actors could be considered professional first-impression artists. Like actors, leaders often find themselves center stage; they must learn the art of creating first impressions.

Subjective awareness and the ability to express yourself nonverbally are known as encoding – crucial for positive first impressions. Advice from professional actors includes a maintaining a pleasant facial expression, good posture, pausing, breathing, relaxing, and avoiding hiding your hands (Shellenbarger, 2018).

This video , 8 Things Successful People Do to Look Confident , provides quick tips for confident body language even if you’re not feeling confident.

First impressions are said to be formed in less than seven seconds (Goman, 2021). In this short time, others formulate labels such as “powerful,” “submissive,” or “trustworthy.” Evolved leaders incorporate mindfulness to help.

Naz Beheshti (2018) states, “Evolved leaders… use nonverbal tools mindfully and deliberately to reinforce their message.” She goes on to say, “this lifts the value of your communication and your value as a leader” (Beheshti, 2018).

Awareness of self, others, and the situation (mindfulness) allows us to ensure that our gestures and body language align with our spoken words. This creates congruence and generates trustworthiness (Beheshti, 2018; Newberg & Waldman, 2013).

Types of nonverbal communication

This means we are analyzing several, simultaneous nonverbal cues. A frustrated person may tap their foot, cross their arms, and tightly squeeze their biceps (Jones, 2013). These clusters may cross over and include a variety of nonverbal categories, summarized below.

1. Kinesics

Kinesics is the study of how we move our body, specifically the head, hands, body, and arms (Jones, 2013). This includes sending messages through facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, and posture.

Haptics is the study of touch or coming into physical contact with another person (Hybels & Weaver, 2015). Throughout history, touch has been surrounded by mystery and taboo. We are perplexed by healing touch and riveted by stories of infants who perished due to lack of touch. Touch can denote relationship, status, power, and personality (Henley, 1977).

Cultural norms dictate guidelines regarding touch. Mindfulness regarding social and environmental settings is prudent. We greet a friend at an informal party differently than we would greet a boss or coworker in a professional setting.

3. Proxemics

The study of space and distance is called proxemics, and it analyzes how people use the space around them (Hybels & Weaver, 2015).

This YouTube video is a fun demonstration of students completing a school project on personal space and the discomfort felt by both humans and animals when social norms are violated.

4. Territory

Territory is often used to display power or reveal a lack thereof.

“'[P]osture expansiveness,’ positioning oneself in a way that opens up the body and takes up space, activated a sense of power that produced behavioral changes in a subject independent of their actual rank or role in an organization” (Goman, 2021).

Expansiveness conveys power.

5. Environment

Environment includes objects we use to adorn ourselves and the artifacts we surround ourselves with in order to create an impression. These objects provide nonverbal cues that help others form impressions (Jones, 2013).

6. Paralinguistics

Paralinguistics, also known as vocalics, is the study of how we speak and involves pitch, volume, rate of speech, tone, quality, tempo, resonance, rhythm, and articulation to help determine the context of the message (Jones, 2013).

7. Chronemics

Chronemics is the study of time, including how it is used. Nancy Henley (1977, p. 43), author of Body Politics: Power, Sex & Nonverbal Communication , asserts “Time is far from a neutral philosophical/physical concept in our society: it is a political weapon.”

Henley (1977, p. 47) describes the concept of “ritual waiting,” stating, “The more important the person, the longer we will ungrudgingly wait for the service or honor of attention.”

8. Attractiveness

The power of drawing attention to oneself doesn’t rely on physical appeal alone. Although facial symmetry and fashion of adornment are important (Jones, 2013), people who master good eye contact, have a lively face, offer encouragement, and use open gestures are also considered attractive (Kuhnke, 2012).

9. Olfactics

essay questions on nonverbal communication

Download 3 Communication Exercises (PDF)

These detailed, science-based exercises will equip you or your clients with tools to improve communication skills and enjoy more positive social interactions with others.

Download 3 Free Communication Tools Pack (PDF)

By filling out your name and email address below.

  • Email Address *
  • Your Expertise * Your expertise Therapy Coaching Education Counseling Business Healthcare Other
  • Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Nonverbal communication is very important, as you could reveal unintentional information, as well as cause your communication to be misinterpreted.

Leakage: Unintentional messages

Teaching social–emotional skills to incarcerated people provided me with a powerful lesson about the nuances of nonverbal communication. On a particularly challenging day, I thought it wise to meditate and center myself prior to entering the jail. However, upon seeing me, the people inside began inquiring what was going on with me. What did they detect?

Nonverbal leakage can be shown through micro-expressions, which are “very fast facial movements lasting 1/25 to 1/5 of a second” and indicate a person’s real feelings (Ekman, 2003, p. 214).

This YouTube video is the opening scene of the series Lie to Me , based on the work of Paul Ekman regarding micro-expressions.

Varying statistics on the value of nonverbal communication may cause concern for those less practiced, but which statistics are accurate?

Crossed messages

The original research from Mehrabian and Ferris (1967) regarding nonverbal communication is widely interpreted. Elizabeth Kuhnke (2012, p. 10), author of Body Language for Dummies , interprets the study, saying, “55% of the emotional message in face-to-face communication results from body language.”

A nonverbal communication formula often cited is 7–38–55, which indicates 7% of the message comes from words, 38% vocal, and 55% facial. However, Lapakko (2007) believes this formula is reckless, faulty, and misleading. Sometimes the nonverbal elements of a message, such as gestures with directions, are incredibly important, and at other times incidental.

In addition, what something “means” in communication is connected to such variables as culture, history of the relationship, people’s intentions, personal experiences, time of day and specific words used. It would be naive to suggest all these nuances could be neatly quantified, and therefore attributing a precise formula to nonverbal communication is flawed in many ways.

So regardless of statistics and formulas, we know that nonverbal communication is essential and that people skilled at both reading and interpreting body language tend to enjoy greater success in life than those not skilled (Goleman, 1997).

Basic emotions

Basic emotion theory

Basic emotion theory (BET) posits that emotions are a “grammar of social living” that situate us in the social and moral order of society (Keltner, Sauter, Tracy, & Cowen, 2019, p. 133). In addition, emotions structure interactions, particularly in relationships that matter. BET is integral to emotional expression.

Foundational to BET is the assumption that emotional expressions coordinate social interactions in three ways:

  • Through rapid conveyance of important information to aid in decision making
  • To evoke specific responses
  • To serve as incentives for others’ actions

This is accomplished through reward systems such as parents smiling and caressing a child who exhibits specific behaviors (Keltner et al., 2019).

BET initially focused on six basic emotions. Literature reveals there are over 20 emotions with distinct, multimodal expressions, providing a deeper structure and highlighting the advancing nature of emotional expression (Keltner et al., 2019).

Neural resonance

Two people who like each other will mirror each other’s facial expressions, gestures, postures, vocalics, and movements. This is known as neural resonance, and it aids the accurate transfer of information from one person to another (Newberg & Waldman, 2013).

To fully understand what another is saying, “you have to listen to and observe the other person as deeply and fully as possible” (Newberg & Waldman, 2013, p. 81). Neural resonance uses mirror neurons to create cooperation, empathy, and trust.

essay questions on nonverbal communication

World’s Largest Positive Psychology Resource

The Positive Psychology Toolkit© is a groundbreaking practitioner resource containing over 500 science-based exercises , activities, interventions, questionnaires, and assessments created by experts using the latest positive psychology research.

Updated monthly. 100% Science-based.

“The best positive psychology resource out there!” — Emiliya Zhivotovskaya , Flourishing Center CEO

Studying nonverbal communication is revealing and intriguing. Most experts will include aspects such as eyes, facial expressions, and hands, but digging deeper reveals less-acknowledged nonverbal nuggets.

1. The benefits of yawning

Yawning is one of the fastest and simplest ways to lower mental stress and anxiety (Waldman & Manning, 2017). Social norms dictate that we refrain from yawning in specific settings, but yawning has many benefits. Did you know that snipers are taught to yawn before pulling the trigger (Waldman & Manning, 2017)?

According to Waldman and Manning (2017), yawning stimulates alertness and concentration; optimizes brain activity and metabolism; improves cognitive functioning; increases recall, consciousness, and introspection; decreases stress and relaxes the upper body; recalibrates a sense of timing; enhances social awareness and empathy; and increases sensuality and pleasure.

2. Feet don’t lie

According to Navarro and Karlins (2008), the most honest part of our body is our feet, as demonstrated by small children who dance with happiness or stomp in frustration. Many people look to the face for truth; Navarro and Karlins take the opposite approach:

“When it comes to honesty, truthfulness decreases as we move from the feet to the head” (Navarro & Karlins, 2008, p. 56), reasoning that emotions are suppressed through fabricated facial expression.

3. Gestures that help

Gestures improve memory and comprehension skills. Gestures may convey information that can influence how listeners respond, depending on the hand being used. “We tend to express positive ideas with our dominant hand and negative ideas with the other hand” (Newberg & Waldman, 2013, p. 44).

4. The eyes have it

“Social network circuits are stimulated through face-to-face eye contact, decreasing cortisol, and increasing oxytocin. The result is increased empathy, social cooperation, and positive communication” (Newberg & Waldman, 2013, p. 135).

Eyes reveal a lot about us. When we are aroused, troubled, concerned, or nervous, our blink rate increases. Once we relax, our blink rate returns to normal (Navarro & Karlins, 2008).

5. Power posing for success

Body language affects how others see us and how we view ourselves. In this YouTube video, Amy Cuddy discusses her research on power posing and how it affects success.

Amy Cuddy’s book is also discussed in our article listing books on imposter syndrome .

6. Fingers crossed

One explanation of the origin of crossing fingers for good luck comes from early beliefs in the power of the cross. The intersection of the digits, epitomizing the cross, was thought to denote a concentration of good spirits and served to anchor a wish until it came true (Keyser, 2014).

7. Fake positivity is harmful

Positivity that doesn’t register in your body or heart can be harmful. According to Barbara Fredrickson (2009, p. 180), “fake smiles, just like sneers of anger, predict heart wall collapse.” To truly benefit from a smile, touch, or embrace, you need to slow down and make it heartfelt.

8. Stand up straight

Poor posture can reduce oxygen intake by 30%, resulting in less energy (Gordon, 2003). Stooping over can make us look and feel old and out of touch. By straightening up, we can make significant differences in how we think and feel. The effect is bi-directional; attitude influences posture, just as posture influences attitude.

NVC in healthcare

Good rapport between clients and practitioners stems from mirroring and synchronicity associated with neural resonance (Finset & Piccolo, 2011; Newberg & Waldman, 2013).

Carl Rogers’s Client-Centered Therapy is based on an empathetic understanding of clients. Nonverbal communication provides valuable information for both the client and the therapist. Showing you like and accept a client may be the most important information a therapist can convey (Finset & Piccolo, 2011).

Nonverbal patterns in therapy evolve over time. Specific behaviors that further the therapeutic process include “a moderate amount of head nodding and smiling; frequent, but not staring, eye contact; active, but not extreme, facial responsiveness; and a warm, relaxed, interested vocal tone” (Finset & Piccolo, 2011, p. 122).

Conscious awareness of nonverbal cues can aid in rapport building. Leaning toward the other signals comfort, whereas leaning away or crossing your arms signals discomfort (Navarro & Karlins, 2008).

Torsos and shoulder blades seem innocuous; however, blading away (turning slightly) from another person shows discomfort, while blading toward or facing another squarely shows a level of comfort (Navarro & Karlins, 2008).

Open palms are an ancient sign of trustworthiness that help establish rapport and are considered nonthreatening (Kuhnke, 2012). Hidden hands (placed in pockets or behind backs) signal disconnection and reluctance to engage. To display respect, keep an open posture with your muscles relaxed and weight evenly distributed.

Mirroring and matching go a long way to show synchronicity. Be careful to avoid mimicry, which signals disrespect (Kuhnke, 2012). Too much of a good thing can jeopardize credibility. An extended, fixed gaze into another’s eyes or effortful smiling can seem awkward, or worse.

This short YouTube video explains the dynamics of fluctuating facial expressions, based on the work of Charles Darwin and Paul Ekman.

This Silent Connections worksheet is an exercise for groups that combines mindfulness and nonverbal communication to build connections.

Someone who lacks the ability to make eye contact during conversation can be easily misinterpreted. To overcome this nonverbal communication issue, our Strategies for Maintaining Eye Contact can be very useful.

Our blog post 49 Communication Activities, Exercises, and Games includes six nonverbal communication activities for adults and three nonverbal exercises that work for families and children.

The blog post What Is Assertive Communication? 10 Real-Life Examples includes nonverbal qualities that complement and enhance assertive statements. Hints for eye contact, facial expressions, and posture can be found throughout.

In the blog post Cultivating Social Intelligence : 3 Ways to Understand Others , we discuss characteristics of social intelligence, including body language.

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others communicate better, this collection contains 17 validated positive communication tools for practitioners. Use them to help others improve their communication skills and form deeper and more positive relationships.

essay questions on nonverbal communication

17 Exercises To Develop Positive Communication

17 Positive Communication Exercises [PDFs] to help others develop communication skills for successful social interactions and positive, fulfilling relationships.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

Nonverbal communication is an essential communication skill. Nonverbal expertise aids in delivering clear messages and forming positive impressions. It doesn’t have to be a big gesture to make a difference. Gently stroking the hand of a grieving friend speaks volumes.

Viewing life as a series of dramatic performances, as implied by both Shakespeare and Goffman, can add a sense of intrigue and adventure to enhancing nonverbal communication. These essential skills will help us achieve goals.

Just as the highly motivated thespian will study and polish their craft, anyone wanting to succeed in their career or interpersonal relationships can study and practice the nuances of nonverbal communication.

Actors and public speakers often practice their craft in front of a mirror or videotape themselves to reflect on strengths and weaknesses.

This article includes a myriad of resources to help improve nonverbal communication skills with many additional resources available.

By starting with something as simple as posture, we exit stage right, headed toward the competency of center stage. Break a leg!

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Communication Exercises (PDF) for free .

  • Beheshti, N. (2018, September 20). The power of mindful nonverbal communication. Forbes . Retrieved April 26, 2021, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/nazbeheshti/2018/09/20/beyond-language-the-power-of-mindful-nonverbal-communication/?sh=6f40b3d71501
  • Ekman, P. (2003). Emotions revealed: Recognizing faces and feelings to improve communication and emotional life . Holt Paperbacks.
  • Finset, A., & Piccolo, L. D. (2011). Nonverbal communication in clinical contexts. In M. Rimondini (Ed.), Communication in cognitive-behavioral therapy (pp. 107–128).  Springer Science + Business Media.
  • Fredrickson, B. L. (2009). Positivity . Crown Publishing Group.
  • Goffman, E. (1956). The presentation of self in everyday life . University of Edinburgh.
  • Goleman, D. (1997). Emotional intelligence . Bantam Trade Paperback.
  • Goman, C. K. (2018, August 26). 5 Ways body language impacts leadership results. Forbes. Retrieved May 1, 2021, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolkinseygoman/2018/08/26/5-ways-body-language-impacts-leadership-results/?sh=5c1b235c536a
  • Gordon, J. (2003). Energy addict: 101 Physical, mental, & spiritual ways to energize your life . Berkley Publishing Group.
  • Henley, N. M. (1977). Body politics: Power, sex and nonverbal communication . Simon & Schuster.
  • Hybels, S., & Weaver, R. L. (2015). Communicating effectively . McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Iacoboni, M. (2008). Mirroring people: The new science of how we connect with others . Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
  • Jones, R. (2013). Communication in the real world: An introduction to communication studies . University of Minnesota Libraries.
  • Keltner, D., Sauter, D., Tracy, J., & Cowen, A. (2019). Emotional expression: Advances in basic emotion theory. Journal of Nonverbal Behavior , 43 (3), 133–160.
  • Keyser, H. (2014, March 21). Why do we cross our fingers for good luck? Mental Floss . Retrieved May 27, 2021, from https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/55702/why-do-we-cross-our-fingers-good-luck
  • Kuhnke, E. (2012). Body language for dummies . John Wiley & Sons.
  • Lapakko, D. (2007). Communication is 93% nonverbal: An urban legend proliferates. Communication and Theater Association of Minnesota Journal , 34 (2), 7–19.
  • MacLachlan, M. (2010, February 12). Cross-cultural communication styles: High and low context. Communicaid. Retrieved May 10, 2021, from https://www.communicaid.com/cross-cultural-training/blog/high-and-low-context/
  • Mehrabian, A., & Ferris, S. R. (1967). Inference of attitudes from nonverbal communication in two channels.  Journal of Consulting Psychology, 31 (3), 248–252.
  • Navarro, J., & Karlins, M. P. (2008). What every body is saying . Harper-Collins.
  • Newberg, A. M., & Waldman, M. R. (2013). Words can change your brain . Avery.
  • Ritzer, G. (2021). Essentials of sociology (4th ed.). SAGE.
  • Shellenbarger, S. (2018, January 30). The mistakes you make in a meeting’s first milliseconds. Wall Street Journal . Retrieved May 22, 2021, from https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-mistakes-you-make-in-a-meetings-first-milliseconds-1517322312
  • Waldman, M. R., & Manning, C. P. (2017). NeuroWisdom: The new brain science of money, happiness, and success . Diversion Books.

' src=

Share this article:

Article feedback

What our readers think.

Jen Leister

I came upon this site by chance. I like to learn new things and even encourage others with things that I learn. This is very insightful and I am excited to learn more and practice, as well as share with others!

Let us know your thoughts Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related articles

Body language

Analyzing & Interpreting Your Clients’ Body Language: 26 Tips

Darwin was one of the first individuals to explore the concept of body language in Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals. He studied [...]

How to say no

How to Say No & Master the Art of Personal Freedom

In a world that often values compliance over authenticity, the notion of personal freedom becomes not just a luxury but a necessity for our wellbeing [...]

Conflict Resolution Training

Conflict Resolution Training: 18 Best Courses and Master’s Degrees

All humans have some things in common. We all need air to breathe and water to stay alive. We are all social beings, and if [...]

Read other articles by their category

  • Body & Brain (52)
  • Coaching & Application (39)
  • Compassion (23)
  • Counseling (40)
  • Emotional Intelligence (21)
  • Gratitude (18)
  • Grief & Bereavement (18)
  • Happiness & SWB (40)
  • Meaning & Values (26)
  • Meditation (16)
  • Mindfulness (40)
  • Motivation & Goals (41)
  • Optimism & Mindset (29)
  • Positive CBT (28)
  • Positive Communication (23)
  • Positive Education (36)
  • Positive Emotions (32)
  • Positive Leadership (16)
  • Positive Parenting (14)
  • Positive Psychology (21)
  • Positive Workplace (35)
  • Productivity (16)
  • Relationships (46)
  • Resilience & Coping (38)
  • Self Awareness (20)
  • Self Esteem (37)
  • Strengths & Virtues (29)
  • Stress & Burnout Prevention (33)
  • Theory & Books (42)
  • Therapy Exercises (37)
  • Types of Therapy (54)
  • Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

24/7 writing help on your phone

To install StudyMoose App tap and then “Add to Home Screen”

Non verbal Communication

Save to my list

Remove from my list

Prof Avah.PhD

The Importance of Nonverbal Communication in Sports

Verbal and nonverbal communication in different situations.

Non verbal Communication. (2016, Jun 10). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay

"Non verbal Communication." StudyMoose , 10 Jun 2016, https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay

StudyMoose. (2016). Non verbal Communication . [Online]. Available at: https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay [Accessed: 24 Aug. 2024]

"Non verbal Communication." StudyMoose, Jun 10, 2016. Accessed August 24, 2024. https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay

"Non verbal Communication," StudyMoose , 10-Jun-2016. [Online]. Available: https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay. [Accessed: 24-Aug-2024]

StudyMoose. (2016). Non verbal Communication . [Online]. Available at: https://studymoose.com/non-verbal-communication-essay [Accessed: 24-Aug-2024]

  • Culture in Verbal and Non Verbal Communication Pages: 3 (862 words)
  • Definition of Non-Verbal Communication Pages: 4 (922 words)
  • Exploring Non-Verbal Communication: A Real-Life Observation Pages: 3 (685 words)
  • Non-Verbal Communication Styles in Mr. Bean Pages: 2 (455 words)
  • Body Language In Non-Verbal Communication: Proxemics Pages: 3 (869 words)
  • When Written Communication Is Used over Verbal Communication? Pages: 2 (472 words)
  • The Non-Verbal Film Baraka is by Ron Frick Pages: 6 (1577 words)
  • Non-Verbal Behaviour and Gestures in "A Streetcar Names Desire" Pages: 4 (1021 words)
  • Verbal and nonverbal communication: functions Pages: 16 (4793 words)
  • Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Ethics Statement Pages: 1 (278 words)

Non verbal Communication essay

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Therapy Center
  • When To See a Therapist
  • Types of Therapy
  • Best Online Therapy
  • Best Couples Therapy
  • Managing Stress
  • Sleep and Dreaming
  • Understanding Emotions
  • Self-Improvement
  • Healthy Relationships
  • Student Resources
  • Personality Types
  • Sweepstakes
  • Guided Meditations
  • Verywell Mind Insights
  • 2024 Verywell Mind 25
  • Mental Health in the Classroom
  • Editorial Process
  • Meet Our Review Board
  • Crisis Support

Types of Nonverbal Communication

Often you don't need words at all

 Tim Robberts / Getty Images

Why Nonverbal Communication Is Important

  • How to Improve

Nonverbal communication means conveying information without using words. This might involve using certain facial expressions or hand gestures to make a specific point, or it could involve the use (or non-use) of eye contact, physical proximity, and other nonverbal cues to get a message across.

A substantial portion of our communication is nonverbal. In fact, some researchers suggest that the percentage of nonverbal communication is four times that of verbal communication, with 80% of what we communicate involving our actions and gestures versus only 20% being conveyed with the use of words.

Every day, we respond to thousands of nonverbal cues and behaviors, including postures, facial expressions, eye gaze, gestures, and tone of voice. From our handshakes to our hairstyles, our nonverbal communication reveals who we are and impacts how we relate to other people.

9 Types of Nonverbal Communication

Scientific research on nonverbal communication and behavior began with the 1872 publication of Charles Darwin's The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals . Since that time, a wealth of research has been devoted to the types, effects, and expressions of unspoken communication and behavior .

Nonverbal Communication Types

While these signals can be so subtle that we are not consciously aware of them, research has identified nine types of nonverbal communication. These nonverbal communication types are:

  • Facial expressions
  • Paralinguistics (such as loudness or tone of voice)
  • Body language
  • Proxemics or personal space
  • Eye gaze, haptics (touch)
  • Artifacts (objects and images)

Facial Expressions

Facial expressions are responsible for a huge proportion of nonverbal communication. Consider how much information can be conveyed with a smile or a frown. The look on a person's face is often the first thing we see, even before we hear what they have to say.

While nonverbal communication and behavior can vary dramatically between cultures, the facial expressions for happiness, sadness, anger, and fear are similar throughout the world.

Deliberate movements and signals are an important way to communicate meaning without words. Common gestures include waving, pointing, and giving a "thumbs up" sign. Other gestures are arbitrary and related to culture.

For example, in the U.S., putting the index and middle finger in the shape of a "V" with your palm facing out is often considered to be a sign of peace or victory. Yet, in Britain, Australia, and other parts of the world, this gesture can be considered an insult.

Nonverbal communication via gestures is so powerful and influential that some judges place limits on which ones are allowed in the courtroom, where they can sway juror opinions. An attorney might glance at their watch to suggest that the opposing lawyer's argument is tedious, for instance. Or they may roll their eyes during a witness's testimony in an attempt to undermine that person's credibility.

Paralinguistics

Paralinguistics refers to vocal communication that is separate from actual language. This form of nonverbal communication includes factors such as tone of voice, loudness, inflection, and pitch.

For example, consider the powerful effect that tone of voice can have on the meaning of a sentence. When said in a strong tone of voice, listeners might interpret a statement as approval and enthusiasm. The same words said in a hesitant tone can convey disapproval and a lack of interest.

Body Language and Posture

Posture and movement can also provide a great deal of information. Research on body language has grown significantly since the 1970s, with popular media focusing on the over-interpretation of defensive postures such as arm-crossing and leg-crossing, especially after the publication of Julius Fast's book Body Language .

While these nonverbal communications can indicate feelings and attitudes , body language is often subtle and less definitive than previously believed.

People often refer to their need for "personal space." This is known as proxemics and is another important type of nonverbal communication.

The amount of distance we need and the amount of space we perceive as belonging to us are influenced by several factors. Among them are social norms , cultural expectations, situational factors, personality characteristics, and level of familiarity.

The amount of personal space needed when having a casual conversation with another person can vary between 18 inches and four feet. The personal distance needed when speaking to a crowd of people is usually around 10 to 12 feet.

The eyes play a role in nonverbal communication, with such things as looking, staring, and blinking being important cues. For example, when you encounter people or things that you like, your rate of blinking increases and your pupils dilate.

People's eyes can indicate a range of emotions , including hostility, interest, and attraction. People also often utilize eye gaze cues to gauge a person's honesty. Normal, steady eye contact is often taken as a sign that a person is telling the truth and is trustworthy. Shifty eyes and an inability to maintain eye contact, on the other hand, is frequently seen as an indicator that someone is lying or being deceptive.

However, some research suggests that eye gaze does not accurately predict lying behavior.

Communicating through touch is another important nonverbal communication behavior. Touch can be used to communicate affection, familiarity, sympathy, and other emotions .

In her book Interpersonal Communication: Everyday Encounters , author Julia Wood writes that touch is also often used to communicate both status and power. High-status individuals tend to invade other people's personal space with greater frequency and intensity than lower-status individuals.

Sex differences also play a role in how people utilize touch to communicate meaning. Women tend to use touch to convey care, concern, and nurturance. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to use touch to assert power or control over others.

There has been a substantial amount of research on the importance of touch in infancy and early childhood. Harry Harlow's classic monkey study , for example, demonstrated how being deprived of touch impedes development. In the experiments, baby monkeys raised by wire mothers experienced permanent deficits in behavior and social interaction.

Our choice of clothing, hairstyle, and other appearance factors are also considered a means of nonverbal communication. Research on color psychology has demonstrated that different colors can evoke different moods. Appearance can also alter physiological reactions, judgments, and interpretations.

Just think of all the subtle judgments you quickly make about someone based on their appearance. These first impressions are important, which is why experts suggest that job seekers dress appropriately for interviews with potential employers.

Researchers have found that appearance can even play a role in how much people earn. Attractive people tend to earn more and receive other fringe benefits, including higher-quality jobs.

Culture is an important influence on how appearances are judged. While thinness tends to be valued in Western cultures, some African cultures relate full-figured bodies to better health, wealth, and social status.

Objects and images are also tools that can be used to communicate nonverbally. On an online forum, for example, you might select an avatar to represent your identity and to communicate information about who you are and the things you like.

People often spend a great deal of time developing a particular image and surrounding themselves with objects designed to convey information about the things that are important to them. Uniforms, for example, can be used to transmit a tremendous amount of information about a person.

A soldier will don fatigues, a police officer will wear a specific uniform, and a doctor will wear a white lab coat. At a mere glance, these outfits tell others what that person does for a living. That makes them a powerful form of nonverbal communication.

Nonverbal Communication Examples

Think of all the ways you communicate nonverbally in your own life. You can find examples of nonverbal communication at home, at work, and in other situations.

Nonverbal Communication at Home

Consider all the ways that tone of voice might change the meaning of a sentence when talking with a family member. One example is when you ask your partner how they are doing and they respond with, "I'm fine." How they say these words reveals a tremendous amount about how they are truly feeling.

A bright, happy tone of voice would suggest that they are doing quite well. A cold tone of voice might suggest that they are not fine but don't wish to discuss it. A somber, downcast tone might indicate that they are the opposite of fine but may want to talk about why.

Other examples of nonverbal communication at home include:

  • Going to your partner swiftly when they call for you (as opposed to taking your time or not responding at all)
  • Greeting your child with a smile when they walk into the room to show that you're happy to see them
  • Leaning in when your loved one speaks to show that you are listening and that you are interested in what they're saying
  • Shoving your fist into the air when you're upset that something isn't working

Nonverbal Communication in the Workplace

You can also find nonverbal communication in the workplace. Examples of this include:

  • Looking co-workers in the eye when speaking with them to be fully engaged in the interaction
  • Throwing your hands in the air when you are frustrated with a project
  • Using excitement in your voice when leading work meetings to project your passion for a specific topic
  • Walking down the hall with your head held high to convey confidence in your abilities

Nonverbal Communication in Other Situations

Here are a few additional examples of nonverbal communication that say a lot without you having to say anything at all:

  • Greeting an old friend at a restaurant with a hug, handshake, or fist bump
  • Placing your hand on someone's arm when they are talking to you at a party to convey friendliness or concern
  • Rolling your eyes at someone who is chatting excessively with a store clerk as a line begins to form
  • Scowling at someone who has cut you off in traffic, or "flipping them the bird"

Nonverbal communication serves an important role in conveying meaning. Some benefits it provides include:

  • Strengthening relationships : Nonverbal communication fosters closeness and intimacy in interpersonal relationships.
  • Substituting for spoken words : Signaling information that a person might not be able to say aloud. This can be helpful in situations where a person might not be heard (such as a noisy workplace) or in therapy situations where a mental health professional can look at nonverbal behaviors to learn more about how a client might be feeling.
  • Reinforcing meaning : Matching nonverbal communication to spoken words can help add clarity and reinforce important points.
  • Regulating conversation : Nonverbal signals can also help regulate the flow of conversation and indicate both the start and end of a message or topic.

Nonverbal communication is important because it can provide valuable information, reinforce the meaning of spoken words, help convey trust, and add clarity to your message.

How to Improve Your Nonverbal Communication Skills

If you want to develop more confident body language or improve your ability to read other people's nonverbal communication behaviors, these tips can help:

  • Pay attention to your own behaviors : Notice the gestures you use when you're happy versus when you're upset. Think about how you change the tone of your voice depending on the emotions you are feeling. Being aware of your own nonverbal communication tendencies is the first step to changing the ones you want to change. It can also give you insight into how you're feeling if you're having trouble putting it into words.
  • Become a student of others : It can also be helpful to consider how others around you communicate nonverbally. What do their facial expressions say? What type of gestures do they use? Becoming familiar with their nonverbal communication patterns helps you recognize when they might be feeling a certain way quicker because you're actively watching for these cues. It can also help you recognize nonverbal behaviors you may want to adopt yourself (such as standing tall when talking to others to display self-confidence ).
  • Look for incongruent nonverbal cues : Do you say that you're fine, then slam cupboard doors to show that you're upset? This can give those around you mixed messages. Or maybe when someone is speaking with you, they are saying yes while shaking their head no. This is another example of incongruent behavior. Both can be signs of feeling a certain way but not yet being ready to admit or discuss it.
  • Think before you act : If your middle finger seems to automatically fly up when a car cuts you off—even if your young child is in the back seat, causing you to regret it as soon as it happens—you can work to stop this reaction. Train yourself to stop and think before you act. This can help you eliminate or replace nonverbal behaviors that you've been wanting to change.
  • Ask before you assume : Certain types of nonverbal communication can mean different things in different cultures. They can also vary based on someone's personality . Before assuming that a person's body language or tone means something definitively, ask. "I notice that you won't look me in the eye when we speak. Are you upset with me?" Give them the opportunity to explain how they are feeling so you know for sure.

A Word From Verywell

Nonverbal communication plays an important role in how we convey meaning and information to others, as well as how we interpret the actions of those around us.

The important thing to remember when looking at nonverbal behaviors is to consider the actions in groups. Consider what a person says verbally, combined with their expressions, appearance, and tone of voice and it can tell you a great deal about what that person is really trying to say.

American Psychological Association. Nonverbal communication (NVC) .

Hull R. The art of nonverbal communication in practice . Hear J . 2016;69(5);22-24. doi:10.1097/01.HJ.0000483270.59643.cc

Frith C. Role of facial expressions in social interactions . Philos Trans R Soc B Biol Sci . 2009;364(1535):3453-8. doi:10.1098/rstb.2009.0142

Goldin-Meadow S. How gesture works to change our minds . Trends Neurosci Educ . 2014;3(1):4-6. doi:10.1016/j.tine.2014.01.002

Guyer JJ, Briñol P, Vaughan-Johnston TI, Fabrigar LR, Moreno L, Petty RE. Paralinguistic features communicated through voice can affect appraisals of confidence and evaluative judgments .  J Nonverbal Behav . 2021;45(4):479-504. doi:10.1007/s10919-021-00374-2

Abdulghafor R, Turaev S, Ali MAH. Body language analysis in healthcare: An overview .  Healthcare (Basel) . 2022;10(7):1251. doi:10.3390/healthcare10071251

Mccall C, Singer T. Facing off with unfair others: introducing proxemic imaging as an implicit measure of approach and avoidance during social interaction . PLoS One . 2015;10(2):e0117532. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0117532

Wiseman R, Watt C, ten Brinke L, Porter S, Couper SL, Rankin C. The eyes don't have it: lie detection and Neuro-Linguistic Programming .  PLoS One . 2012;7(7):e40259. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0040259

Sekerdej M, Simão C, Waldzus S, Brito R. Keeping in touch with context: Non-verbal behavior as a manifestation of communality and dominance . J Nonverbal Behav . 2018;42(3):311-326. doi:10.1007/s10919-018-0279-2

Bambaeeroo F, Shokrpour N. The impact of the teachers' non-verbal communication on success in teaching .  J Adv Med Educ Prof . 2017;5(2):51-59.

Dilmaghani M. Beauty perks: Physical appearance, earnings, and fringe benefits . Economics & Human Biology . 2020;38:100889. doi:10.1016/j.ehb.2020.100889

Darwin C. The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals .

Wood J.  Interpersonal Communication: Everyday Encounters .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Nonverbal Communication Essay

Nonverbal communication is the act of delivering communication without the use of words. Nonverbal communications are essential in the workplace. During communication at a workplace, nonverbal communication accounts for 93% of the communication, while the remaining 7% is verbal communication (Mehrabian, 1981). During negotiations in a workplace, 60% to 80% of the communication is nonverbal (Pease, 2017). This type of communication highlights the importance of correct utilization and understanding of nonverbal skills in the workplace for better communication and the subsequent success of the organization.

There are many situations through which nonverbal communication applies in a workplace. These include facial expressions, touching examples during handshakes, paralinguistics examples changes of tone and communication speed, use of space while elaborating, use of time example while pausing for effect, general appearance during communication, and use of gestures and standing poses, for instance, hands-on-hips.

During my time in the workplace, facial expressions, gestures and postures, and appearance and dressing were among some of the nonverbal communication strategies I experienced.

Facial expressions in nonverbal communication

The manager used facial expressions in the meeting while communicating with the employees. The manager spoke directly, going directly into the agendas of the meeting. He showed good planning by the way he navigated the objectives of the meeting. He had a calm attitude and maintained good eye contact with the employees.

He used facial expressions such as smiling, eye contact, raising of one or both eyebrows, the movement of cheek muscles, frowning, lowering of eyebrows, making puzzled faces, movement of the eyes, moving the nose muscles, changing the breathing pattern, for example deep exhale to express his mood on particular topics of discussion.

At one instance, he made a disappointed look by creating a deep exhale and making a long stare on an employee who appeared to be distracted from the events of the meeting. The employee quickly realized the look and sat upright and maintained eye contact with the manager. The manager was once again contented and resumed on the topics of discussion, usually changing his mood. From this, we can see the importance of nonverbal cues in communication.

Functions of facial expressions in communication

Facial expressions as nonverbal communication cues are essential tools in expressing emotions and attitudes to other people. They are considered to be the primary form of communication between humans and other animal species. People can use these expressions to express joy, anger, fear, surprise, fear, and disgust (Argyle,1988). Facial expressions are vital since they help in the communication of thoughts, ideas and emotions. In addition, they are useful indicators of trust. People who fail to maintain proper eye contact are perceived to be untrustworthy.

Use of gestures and postures in nonverbal communication

Gestures are movements made by a person during speech using one or multiple parts of the body. Gestures and body postures are huge indicators of the mood and interest of a person during communication (Harappa diaries, 2021). Gestures and body poses were used a lot by the manager during the meeting while addressing the employees.

Some of the gestures and poses used by the manager include hand gestures, for example, thumbs up to signal satisfaction. He also raised his hands to insist on specific points during communication, raising alertness levels of the employees listening. He also rubbed his hands to signal positive expectations from the employees. He maintained a straight poise when standing, which signaled his dominance and preparedness, thereby better communicating with the employees and promoting efficient information delivery.

Functions of gestures and postures in non-verbal communication

Appropriate gestures and body postures are helpful in opinion emphasis. They help capture the audience’s attention and help keep them involved in the discussion. They are also good indicators of audience alertness and the message’s reception (Harappa diaries, 2021). By studying audience postures and gestures, one can tell whether they are positively or negatively taking the communication. It is therefore vital to maintain good postures and gestures during communication.

Appearance and dressing in nonverbal communication

Appearance and dressing are important nonverbal cues one should always maintain in communication. However, the dressing should always match the occasion. In the meeting with the employees, the manager kept an excellent appearance and dressing. He wore a well-fitting black suit and white shirt with a nice tie. The meeting was formal, and the manager maintained a formal appearance, which promoted better communication since employees were less distracted by his appearance.

Functions of appearance and dressing in nonverbal communication

Appearance plays a significant role in a person’s image. It can change the way people respond to your communication how they judge and understand you (Bartleby Research, 2021). However, the dressing code is dependent on the occasion. Good choice of dressing is vital in an event for good communication to occur. Appearance is significant since it helps the audience become more alert, thereby perceiving the message better. Appearance is also important since it can determine whether people respect you in your leadership role. Therefore, it is always good to maintain a good impression and dress to promote good communication.

How unconventional language and word choice hinder nonverbal communication situations

In some instances, the manager’s word choice was poor, leading to misunderstanding the intended meaning. The poor word choice led to confusion and mood change when for example, the intended meaning was positive, and yet, due to poor word choice, the employees interpreted it negatively. There were other instances the manager strayed away from the topic of discussion and discussed different matters outside his talking points, which led to distraction and boredom by the employees, who responded by showing inattentiveness, poor sitting postures, and even signs of drowsiness. Therefore, this brings out the effects of poor communication on poor listening habits, making communication efficiency poor.

Listening techniques used by the manager in the nonverbal communication situations

The manager used good listening techniques when employees asked questions or made suggestions on particular discussion topics. He paid close attention to the person speaking by maintaining eye contact and observing the nonverbal cues closely. He also used nonverbal cues such as nodding, smiling, and encouraging the speaker with verbal comments such as showing that he was listening. He also asked for clarification whenever he didn’t understand and ensured the employee finished speaking before asking for clarification. He was also appropriately responsive and respectfully gave his opinions on matters, thereby promoting good communication between the manager and employees.

Argyle, M. (1988), Bodily Communication, 2nd Edition, Methuen, New York.

Bartleby Research. (2021).  Importance of appearance in nonverbal communication . Homework Help and Textbook Solutions | Bartleby. https://www.bartleby.com/essay/Importance-Of-Appearance-In-Nonverbal-Communication-FCYYE46LZQR

Harappa diaries. (2021, August 13).  Role of gestures in communication . Harappa. https://harappa.education/harappa-diaries/gestures-and-body-language-in-communication/

Khanna, P. (2020). Techniques and Strategies to Develop Active Listening Skills: The Armour for Effective Communication across Business Organizations.  The Achievers Journal: Mehrabian, A. (1981), Silent Messages: Implicit Communication of Emotions and Attitudes, 2 nd Edition, Belmont, Wadsworth, CA. Journal of English Language, Literature and Culture ,  6 (3), 50-60.

Pease, A. & Pease, B. The Definitive Book of Body Language, Harlequin,2017.

Cite This Work

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Related Essays

Addiction as a spiritual crisis, work-life balance among the millennials, embracing diversity in instructional practices, healthcare globalization and emerging technologies, court case – oapa 1861, reproductive rights vs. unborn’s right to life., popular essay topics.

  • American Dream
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Black Lives Matter
  • Bullying Essay
  • Career Goals Essay
  • Causes of the Civil War
  • Child Abusing
  • Civil Rights Movement
  • Community Service
  • Cultural Identity
  • Cyber Bullying
  • Death Penalty
  • Depression Essay
  • Domestic Violence
  • Freedom of Speech
  • Global Warming
  • Gun Control
  • Human Trafficking
  • I Believe Essay
  • Immigration
  • Importance of Education
  • Israel and Palestine Conflict
  • Leadership Essay
  • Legalizing Marijuanas
  • Mental Health
  • National Honor Society
  • Police Brutality
  • Pollution Essay
  • Racism Essay
  • Romeo and Juliet
  • Same Sex Marriages
  • Social Media
  • The Great Gatsby
  • The Yellow Wallpaper
  • Time Management
  • To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Violent Video Games
  • What Makes You Unique
  • Why I Want to Be a Nurse
  • Send us an e-mail
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

A Plus Topper

Improve your Grades

Non-verbal Communication Essay | Types of Non-verbal Communication and Implications

August 6, 2021 by Prasanna

Non-verbal Communication Essay: Among verbal and non-verbal communication, a significant portion of our day-to-day interaction occurs through non-verbal communication. Moreover, it is said that non-verbal communication is far more effective at conveying a message than verbal communication. As the name implies, the term “non-verbal communication” is any form of communication that does not involve speech – this includes facial expressions, postures, gestures, tone of voice and countless other non-verbal cues. Even something as simple as a handshake, a glance, or touch can be considered as a form of non-verbal communication.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

Types of Non-verbal Communication and Implications

Here, we shall explore the various types of non-verbal communication and their consequent implications:

Facial Expressions and Facial Cues: Consider a smile or a frown, these two facial expressions convey a lot of meaning without the need for any verbal explanation. In fact, the facial expression of a person is the first thing that can be seen before we even talk to them. Moreover, every culture around the world has similar expressions for happiness, anger, sadness and fear. Interestingly, even a person’s eye can reveal much of their feelings. A person’s blink rate can also tell if a person is at ease or tensed. However, the perception of eye contact varies between cultures. For instance, direct eye contact might be avoided in certain cultures as it is a sign of disrespect, especially towards elders. On the contrary, lack of eye contact when conversing can be misinterpreted as lacking self-confidence in many Western countries. Another aspect that tells a lot about a person is the pupils in their eyes. For instance, pupil dilation can signal pleasure, excitement or attraction. Similarly, constricted pupils usually send a colder signal.

Gestures: Another effective way to convey meaning without words is through gestures – which are visible body actions. Alternatively, gestures can also be used in conjunction with speech and body language to emphasize a point. Gestures primarily involve using hand signals, facial expressions or other parts of the body. Gestures can be classified into two types – informative gestures and communicative gestures. Informative gestures are also called passive gestures and they provide information about the speaker as a person rather than the subject of their communication. They are also not produced intentionally, hence the term “passive.” For instance, scratching, or adjusting clothing might imply that the speaker is uncomfortable.

On the other hand, communicative gestures are the types of gestures that are produced intentionally by the speaker, hence it is also called “active gestures”. This type of gesture is used as a modifier, often sending a more impactful message. A famous example of this type of gesture can be seen in the 1917 J.M Flagg’s “Uncle Sam” poster, which was used to recruit soldiers into the US Army for World War I as well as World War II. In this poster, Uncle Sam is seen pointing and sending a non-verbal form of gesture, implying to viewers that he wants them to join the US Army. The main takeaway here is – gestures are one of the most powerful tools to communicate non-verbally.

Body Language: One of the most effective components of non-verbal communication, body language plays an important role in conveying hidden messages. However, these behaviours might seem subtle and less defined, but nonetheless, are important markers in displaying feelings and emotions. For instance, sitting cross-legged or crossing one’s arms are seen as defensive postures. Nervousness, especially in stressful situations, can make people sit or stand stiff. During job interviews, candidates who might be less confident and nervous might sit extremely upright and end up gasping for breath when asked open-ended or stress-inducing questions.  They may also fidget while trying to avoid eye contact. Such individuals usually have problems with public speaking as well.

Paralanguage: This form of non-verbal communication includes voice modulation, loudness and pitch. It essentially provides emphasis and emotions for a message. Consider the following thought experiment where a strong and loud tone of voice is used in a commercial- the impression that it gives its viewers might be of “vigour, sprightly or spirited.” However, if a softer, calmer tone of voice is used in the same commercial, then the viewers might find the tone of the commercial to be “relaxed, or soothing.” Similarly, if a hesitant, stuttering voice is used, it might convey nervousness or fear. In everyday usage, a reply with a “warm” or “cold” tone of voice can imply more than what is being said. For example, if a person questioned you about your day, and you replied, “It was okay,” in a cold tone of voice, it might suggest that your day was not okay, and you do not wish to discuss it further. The same reply in a somber tone might indicate that you had a bad day and you wish to share the details of it with someone. Similarly, a bright, spirited tone might suggest that your day was indeed alright.

Haptics: Touch plays an important role in non-verbal communication. Usually, touch indicates affection, sympathy and familiarity. Usage of haptics also varies between the genders – for instance, men usually touch to assert dominance or power over others while women use touch to convey concern, affection and care. Research has also found that individuals of high power and social status tend to invade the personal space of other people with higher frequency than people with lower power and social status. In conclusion, these are one of the most important tools that influence the effectiveness of non-verbal communication.

Non-verbal Communication

FAQs on Non-verbal Communication

Question 1. What is Non-verbal communication?

Answer: As the name implies, non-verbal communication refers to the process of sending or receiving messages without actually using written or spoken language.

Question 2. What are the tools of non-verbal communication?

Answer: A few of the most effective tools of non-verbal communication are – haptics, paralanguage, body language, gestures, facial expressions and facial cues.

  • Picture Dictionary
  • English Speech
  • English Slogans
  • English Letter Writing
  • English Essay Writing
  • English Textbook Answers
  • Types of Certificates
  • ICSE Solutions
  • Selina ICSE Solutions
  • ML Aggarwal Solutions
  • HSSLive Plus One
  • HSSLive Plus Two
  • Kerala SSLC
  • Distance Education

Enjoy a completely custom, expertly-written dissertation. Choose from hundreds of writers, all of whom are career specialists in your subject.

110 Communication Essay Topics for You

check Communication Essay Topics

Communication is the act of exchanging information with other people. It can be verbal, written, or non-verbal. It can also be direct or indirect, intentional or unintentional. In intentional communication, we’re aware that we’re trying to communicate something to another person when we send them a message, email, or text message. 

In unintentional communication, we don’t know that what we say or do is sending a message to someone else.

It is important to note that all forms of communication can result in some degree of misunderstanding between two people. For example, if one person says, “Your shoes look great today,” but the other person hears, “Your shoes look great today ,” (meaning they didn’t look so great on other days), then there has been some kind of misunderstanding between them. And this can result in hurt feelings for both parties involved.

Since communication is a sensitive field, you may need some help selecting good communication topics.  

Why Do You Need Help Choosing Communication Topics?

There are a lot of reasons why you should get help when selecting topics on communication.

  • Firstly, communication is a very important and sensitive topic. So, usually, you’ll need an expert who can guide you through the process of choosing the right topic for your needs. This person can be a friend or family member, but ideally, it should be someone who has experience with the topic you’re interested in learning more about.
  • Secondly, it’s important to have someone who can answer any questions that might come up when you want to select a topic. Since communication is a broad topic, you might not know what topic to choose, where to start learning about a topic, or what resources are available for further reading and researching. A professional can provide these answers for you!
  • Finally, there’s no way around it: communication skills improve over time. An expert can help you hone your skills by providing feedback as you work through the topic selection process. So, whether you need communications research topics or topics for essays, we’ve got you covered.  

How to Choose a Topic in Communication?

Choosing a topic for your communication essay or paper is one of the most important things you need to do. The topic will set the tone for your entire piece and reflect the needs and interests of your audience.

You’ll want to choose something relevant but also something they’ll want to hear about. If you’re writing a blog post, for example, you might want to write about how people should always watch out for non-verbal communication cues. But if they don’t want to hear that advice, they may not read your article!

It’s also important to pick something that will be interesting and informative for both you and your audience. If you choose something too boring or trivial, then no one will care. On the other hand, if you choose something too complicated or technical for anyone except a few experts in the field, then it will probably turn off everyone else who reads it.

Some Communication Topics You Can Choose From

Life is greatly dependent on communication. It is the method by which we communicate with others, exchange knowledge, and exert influence on one another. If you’re seeking a communication topic for your essay, here are 10 communication topics you can choose from:

  • What is communication and how has it evolved over the last century?
  • How does culture influence human behaviors?
  • When does communication end in a discussion?
  • Communication involves effective listening and good feedback.
  • How fast should communication feedback be?
  • How can you improve your communication skills?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of communication?
  • How can you get better at communicating with different people?
  • What is the purpose of communication?
  • How can you improve your listening skills?

Interpersonal Communication Topics

When it comes down to interpersonal communication, keep in mind that it is a very broad, emotional, and heart-filled field. So when selecting an interpersonal communication topic, make sure it reflects that. To help you, we have compiled 10 interpersonal topics on communication below.

  • Discuss the importance of interpersonal communication skills in our day-to-day life.
  • Types of interpersonal communication
  • The language of interpersonal communication
  • Rules of interpersonal communication
  • How to communicate with people who have accents or other communication difficulties.
  • Is listening truly a part of communication?
  • How to give feedback when someone hasn’t done something correctly.
  • How to handle sensitive situations like conflict and confrontation.
  • What makes a great conversation between people or groups?
  • Can you communicate with yourself?

Business Communication Topics

When trying to select a business communication topic, you should keep in mind that business communication involves you making effective use of words to persuade your audience of your ideas or opinions.

Usually, you’ll need to use persuasion techniques such as logic, emotion, or appealing to authorities. Here are 10 business communication topics for research, essays, blogs, etc.:

  • Is business communication primarily interpersonal or transactional?
  • How to use non-verbal communication in business communication
  • Business communication beats talent and ideas.
  • Business communication involves audience perception
  • How to be more effective in your communication with your team members
  • The best way to get the most out of a meeting or conference call
  • The biggest communication mistakes people make when doing business
  • How to deal with difficult people at work and in life
  • How to write an email that communicates your thoughts effectively
  • Does workplace etiquette include business communication?

Intercultural Communication Topic

Our globe is more interconnected than ever, and culture is one of the things that makes humanity unique and beautiful. Your intercultural communications research topics should reflect this as much as possible. This is why we have compiled a list of 10 intercultural communication topics that you can select from below:

  • What is intercultural communication?
  • Who are the people involved in intercultural communication?
  • How do different cultures communicate?
  • What are the main elements of intercultural communication?
  • How do we study intercultural communication and why is it important?
  • Why should you care about intercultural communication?
  • What skills do you need to be good at intercultural communication?
  • Is there a better way to learn about other cultures than by being exposed to them yourself?
  • How can you be more aware of your biases when interacting with people from different cultures?
  • How has technology changed intercultural communication?

Mass Communications Research Topics

Mass communication has evolved over the years. People all over the world can now receive information at their convenience. Do you need some mass communication research topics for your essay? Here are 10 top topics you can choose from:

  • A brief history and evolution of mass communications
  • How has technology impacted mass communication?
  • Mass communication theories and models
  • How do people respond to advertising?
  • The importance of mass communication research
  • A discussion on the popular mass communication methods today
  • How can you communicate effectively with millions of people at a time?
  • Should public speakers care about mass communication degrees or training?  
  • Future directions for mass communications research
  • Is non-verbal communication important in mass communication?

Communication Phenomenon Topics

It can be challenging to find a topic that is related to something factual while trying to choose a phenomenon communication research topic for your essay. For your convenience, we have listed ten phenomenon-related subjects below:

  • How does the brain work when we communicate?
  • Communication styles of people with different personalities
  • The importance of speaking up when there’s something you need or want
  • How to resolve conflict in your relationships with others
  • Understanding personality types
  • How to start a conversation with someone you’ve just met
  • How to ask for help from others
  • Why it’s important to give compliments
  • How to make people feel better about themselves
  • How to recognize your communication style and work on it if necessary

Communication Thesis Topics Examples

Usually, you would need to conduct extensive research to come up with a worthwhile thesis topic. Here are 10 communication research topics to guide you in your selection of thesis topics.

  • Communication and its impact on society
  • How people communicate with each other in social settings
  • How people communicate with each other during meetings or conferences
  • How do groups of people use language to communicate?
  • What are the best methods to communicate with the public?
  • How do you communicate with colleagues in an academic environment?
  • The effect of communication on the development of a country.
  • The best communication methods in business.
  • The best communication methods in schools.
  • How do you communicate with other scientists? What are some of the barriers?

Business Communication Topics for Presentation

It is common knowledge that choosing topics for presentations usually requires a lot of time and effort because you need to make sure the audience will find your work engaging and the points make sense. Here are 10 corporate communication topics below to help you avoid making a mistake.

  • The best business communication skills to have.
  • How to write a business communication plan
  • The different types of business communication
  • How communication affects corporate decision-making
  • How effective marketing is impacted by communication
  • How to utilize effective communication to persuade consumers to purchase goods
  • Why does your business’s ability to grow and thrive depend on effective communication
  • The diverse functions played by communication theories in the business world
  • How efficiently do marketing and corporate communication work together?
  • Overcoming business obstacles with dialogue

Organizational Communication Research Topics

Organizational communication research is a subfield of organizational behavior that studies human-to-human interactions within organizations and how they affect the success of an organization. Are you looking for some organizational communication topics? Here are the top ten!

  • How do employees feel about their employer’s communication?
  • How satisfied are employees with their workplace freedom for interpersonal communication?
  • How much impact do organizational culture and communication have on the organization’s success?
  • How does the structure of a company affect how it communicates with its employees?
  • How do you know if your communication efforts are effective for your company?
  • What is the best way to use email as an organizational tool?
  • What are the most effective ways to communicate with customers?
  • What are the most effective ways to communicate with employees?
  • Leadership and organizational communication
  • How much impact does organizational communication have on the organization’s success?

Virtual Communication Topics

Virtual communication is one of the most common forms of communication today. People across continents can communicate without barriers through virtual communication. Are you looking for virtual communication topics? We’ve compiled a list of 10 virtual communication topics for you!

  • How to make virtual communication more effective
  • The importance of building relationships with virtual communication before you start discussing business
  • How to avoid misinterpretation in virtual communication
  • How do you feel about working with people who don’t have an office?
  • What’s the best part about working and communicating from home?
  • What are the tips for managing distractions while working remotely?
  • What’s your take on virtual meetings?
  • Which is most preferable between face-to-face and virtual communication?
  • How to make sure everything is recorded correctly when using video chat software.
  • How to deal with trolls in the virtual world

Nonverbal Communication Research Topics

Nonverbal communication is any form of communication that does not involve speech (i.e., body language). Nonverbal communication includes things like nodding or shaking the head, smiling or frowning, and touching someone on the shoulder while talking to them right in front of their face.

If you’re looking for communication topics for research on non-verbal, take a look at the best 10 non-verbal topics below.

  • The effect of nonverbal cues on the perception of dominance
  • The role of nonverbal communication in the formation of trust
  • The effect of context on the organization and interpretation of nonverbal cues
  • The interplay between nonverbal communication and facial expressions
  • The impact of nonverbal communication on relationships
  • How social class affects nonverbal communication
  • The effect of culture on nonverbal communication
  • How does gender impact our perception of facial expressions and body language?
  • How our surroundings can influence our behavior
  • Nonverbal as a tool for self-expression

Oral Communication Speech Topics

The term “oral communication” refers to verbal communication that involves using the mouth to convey thoughts or ideas. Sometimes, finding an oral speech topic might be challenging. That’s why we have put up a list of 10 oral speech communications topics for you:  

  • The history of oral communication
  • Oral communication as a way to learn a foreign language
  • Oral communication in education
  • Oral communication in business and the workplace
  • Oral communication in sports and entertainment
  • How to give a persuasive speech
  • How to give an informative speech
  • How can you improve your interpersonal communication skills
  • The importance of a good speaking voice
  • Oral Communication in a Parent-Child Relationship

Communication Speech Topics

Are you searching for topics about speech and communication? Here is a list of the top 10 communication speech essay topics you can choose from.

  • The importance of communication in the workplace
  • The power of good communication skills
  • How to make a good first impression with your boss or client
  • How to express gratitude for a job well done or a favor returned
  • The value of making others feel comfortable about speaking up
  • How to interact with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and ethnicities
  • The importance of communication skills
  • How to give a presentation
  • How to deal with difficult people and situations at work or school
  • How to speak in front of a group of people

Cultural Communication Essay Topics

Cultural communication refers to understanding how people from different cultures communicate with each other through verbal and non-verbal means. Do you need to write an essay about cultural communication? Below are 10 fascinating cultural communication topics:  

  • Communication is a two-way street, not a one-way street. Discuss.
  • The importance of cultural communication
  • What is cultural communication in the modern world?
  • Cultural communication and intercultural dialogue
  • Does cultural communication affect our understanding of the world?
  • How to communicate with people from other cultures.
  • Cultural differences in communication styles
  • How does cultural communication affect business?
  • Is the importance of cultural communication slowly fading?
  • What is the most common mistake people make when trying to communicate with someone from another culture?

Communication is a crucial aspect of life. It’s the key to everything, whether we’re trying to sell a product, tell someone we’re sorry, or just say “hi.”

Communication research paper topics can be challenging to find. With these 110 communication topics, you can choose a topic faster! And if you need help with your paper or essay, you can always turn to trusted writing companies to help you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Richard Ginger is a dissertation writer and freelance columnist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the writing industry. He handles every project he works on with precision while keeping attention to details and ensuring that every work he does is unique.

essay questions on nonverbal communication

Succeed With A Perfect Dissertation

motivational speech topics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Nonverbal Communication — Verbal And Nonverbal Communication

test_template

Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

  • Categories: Nonverbal Communication

About this sample

close

Words: 1463 |

Published: Aug 16, 2019

Words: 1463 | Pages: 3 | 8 min read

Image of Dr. Oliver Johnson

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

author

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

  • Expert in: Sociology

writer

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

7 pages / 3006 words

2 pages / 717 words

4 pages / 1801 words

1 pages / 302 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Nonverbal Communication

Behavior plays a crucial role in shaping our personal and professional lives, affecting our relationships, productivity, and overall well-being. Therefore, understanding and improving our behavior is essential for personal [...]

Howe, N. (2018). How Sibling Imitation Affords Different Developmental Opportunities and Challenges. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 59(9), 1032-1039.

First impressions are a fundamental aspect of human interaction. We form these snap judgments within seconds of meeting someone, often based on appearance, body language, and initial conversations. These impressions can be [...]

In various fields such as science, literature, and politics, visual representations play a significant role in communicating knowledge. Visual representations encompass a wide range of forms, including images, charts, and [...]

Amy Cuddy presents “Power Posing” at a Ted conference in Edin, Scotland. She explains the importance of body language by how others may see them, but how they also see themselves. That by doing power poses can help them portray [...]

Other than being categorized as formal or informal, communication can be classified as either verbal or non-verbal as well. Verbal or oral communication involves the use of speech to pass information. For verbal communication to [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

essay questions on nonverbal communication

Essays on Nonverbal Communication

We found 36 free papers on nonverbal communication, essay examples, i am sam case study.

Nonverbal Communication

Mikaela McMorine October 21st, 2012 Analyzing an Interview Movie: I Am Sam (directed by Jessie Nelson) The individuals involved in the interview are a man diagnosed with Autism (subject S) and a female lawyer (subject R). They are connected through a professional-helping relationship. The incidents leading up to the interview are with regards to a…

“Kramer Versus Kramer” Character Analysis

After watching the movie Kramer Versus Kramer, I will create a brief summary and cover several aspects of communication, including hearing versus listening, nonverbal communication, and relationships. A brief overview of the film Kramer Versus Kramer starts out by the main character Ted coming home late from work and his wife Joanna tells him that…

Impression Formation Proposal

Scientific method

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of different stimuli on individuals’ perceptions. Specifically, this report aims to analyze how video and audio stimuli can influence people’s views regarding a particular topic or individual. The research methodology employed for this investigation will involve conducting experiments in order to manipulate and measure variables,…

Non verbal communication in intercultural study

Non- verbal communication Non- verbal communication is a term that is used to refer to actions which are different from speech but which, just like speech, can be used to convey information from one person to the next; thereby facilitating communication. Such actions may include facial expressions, gesticulation using the arms and the hands, varying…

Does Red Lipstick Really Attract Men

 Previous research has demonstrated that the color red increases the attractiveness of women. It has also been found that makeup increases perceived women’ attractiveness for men and was associated with perceived greater interest for the opposite sex. We hypothesized that women wearing red lipstick would be more favorably approached by men. Female confederates wearing red,…

Observing Nonverbal Communication

Watch a television drama or comedy and write down all of the instances of nonverbal communication that you see. After watching the program, list each instance, classify it based on the list of types below, and place a plus sign (+) next to any example that contributed to the message and a minus sign (-)…

The Law of Continuation: the Power of Visual Organization

The aim of this work is to get acquinted with the law of continuation. A Gestalt principle of organization holding that there is an innate tendency to perceive a line as continuing its established direction. So in this work I would attempt to get better knowledge about this principle of psichology. What is the law…

Nonverbal Communication Between Gendre

According to Professor Peter F. Drucker, nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in understanding unspoken messages. Intercultural communication particularly highlights the significance of nonverbal cues in conveying information. Statistical evidence suggests that around 66% of meaning during an interaction is expressed through nonverbal signals, while only 33% is delivered verbally (Birdwhistell, 1955; Burgoon, 1994). Nonverbal…

Positive Nonverbal Communication During the Interview Process

Oftentimes the decision to hire a candidate for a supervisory position hinges on not only their qualifications but also the nonverbal cues being given during the interview process. Should the candidate appear uncomfortable, fidgety or dishonest his chances of landing the job become slim. What, then, are nonverbal cues that can be used to enhance…

Principles of Supporting Business Events Assessment

World Wide Web

Understand the purpose of displaying professional and helpful behaviour whilst supporting a business event and how to do so Explain the purpose of displaying professional and helpful behaviour when supporting a business event. The purpose of displaying professional and helpful behaviour whilst supporting a business event is for a lot of reasons. By doing the…

information

There are a few key elements that are important to include in a Nonverbal Communication essay. First, it is important to discuss the different types of nonverbal communication and how they can be used to communicate effectively. Second, it is important to analyze how nonverbal communication can be used in different contexts, such as in business or personal relationships. Finally, it is also important to discuss the importance of nonverbal communication in our daily lives.

There are a number of pros and cons to writing an essay on nonverbal communication. On the plus side, an essay on this topic can help you to better understand the role that nonverbal communication plays in our everyday lives. Additionally, an essay on nonverbal communication can also help you to better understand how to effectively communicate with others. On the downside, an essay on this topic can be quite challenging to write. Additionally, if you are not careful, you may find yourself inadvertently offending someone with your essay.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nonverbal Communication

Don't hesitate to contact us. We are ready to help you 24/7

essay questions on nonverbal communication

Hi, my name is Amy 👋

In case you can't find a relevant example, our professional writers are ready to help you write a unique paper. Just talk to our smart assistant Amy and she'll connect you with the best match.

essay questions on nonverbal communication

113 Nonverbal Communication Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. Nonverbal communication is a crucial aspect of human interaction, as it can convey just as much information as verbal communication. From facial expressions to body language, nonverbal cues can reveal a person's emotions, intentions, and attitudes. In this article, we will explore 113 ...

The Psychology of Verbal and Nonverbal Communication. On the other hand, one is to keep in mind that the main purpose of the kind of communication is to aid in the formulation of thoughts or ideas, which are expressed through speech. Self-Awareness in Nonverbal Communication. The ability to correctly use nonverbal signs during a dialogue helps ...

This means communication in a nonverbal way. It may include sounds, visuals, body language or even touch. It is a subject in many higher institutions and is common in military and sports surroundings. We never imagine how military officials communicate in a nonverbal way when they are on the front lines. This type of communication is also used ...

Argumentative Essay Topics About Nonverbal Communication. Action Speaks Louder than Words: Nonverbal Communication. An Experiment on The Factors that Influence Nonverbal Communication. Analyze the Nonverbal Communication. Barriers to Effective Verbal and Nonverbal Communication. Behavioral Interviewing And Nonverbal Communication.

These clusters may cross over and include a variety of nonverbal categories, summarized below. 1. Kinesics. Kinesics is the study of how we move our body, specifically the head, hands, body, and arms (Jones, 2013). This includes sending messages through facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, and posture.

Nonverbal communication is a complex and fascinating subject that encompasses a wide range of behaviors and cues, and as such, it offers a wealth of potential topics for exploration and analysis. In this essay, we will explore some of the most interesting and relevant nonverbal communication essay topics, and discuss why they are important.

The Impact of Nonverbal Communication. Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in our daily interactions, shaping the way we understand and convey messages. From casual conversations to professional settings, nonverbal cues can significantly impact the effectiveness of communication. This essay will explore the importance of nonverbal ...

Nonverbal Communication Skills. In in-person or face-to-face communication approximately 60% of the meaning is an outcome of non-verbal behaviour." We have actually all heard-- and stated -- "physical actions speak louder than words." Actions have been so essential to our communication that analysts have estimated that within face-to-face ...

There are three main aspects of nonverbal communication: facial expression, gestures, and tone of voice. Facial expression is the most universal form of language in the world. Therefore, in order to have a good first impression and grabbing audience's attention. It is because the similarity of facial expressions used to convey fear, anger ...

In summary, non-verbal communication is the unconscious element that a person exhibits in a conversation. There is exists universal non-verbal cues that cut across different cultures but in some instances, some expressions can have different meanings. Cues with different meanings include eye contact which infers confidence in the western ...

In this essay, I will talk about 3 types of non-verbal behavior in Japanese culture and what it signifies in their culture and their values. The three types of non-verbal behavior I've chosen are bowing (Ojigi), expressing happiness (Banzai) and beckoning Temaneki. The…. Japan Country Nonverbal Communication. 8.

The game of baseball is a great example of a sport that uses nonverbal communication every single play. The game of baseball is almost ruled by the signs and signals it uses. "People routinely communicate more information through nonverbal behaviors than they do through spoken language" (Floyd, 2013, p. 104).

Strengthening relationships: Nonverbal communication fosters closeness and intimacy in interpersonal relationships.; Substituting for spoken words: Signaling information that a person might not be able to say aloud.This can be helpful in situations where a person might not be heard (such as a noisy workplace) or in therapy situations where a mental health professional can look at nonverbal ...

Nonverbal communication is the act of delivering communication without the use of words. Nonverbal communications are essential in the workplace. During communication at a workplace, nonverbal communication accounts for 93% of the communication, while the remaining 7% is verbal communication (Mehrabian, 1981). During negotiations in a workplace, 60% to 80% of the communication is nonverbal […]

As the name implies, the term "non-verbal communication" is any form of communication that does not involve speech - this includes facial expressions, postures, gestures, tone of voice and countless other non-verbal cues. Even something as simple as a handshake, a glance, or touch can be considered as a form of non-verbal communication.

Nonverbal communication is communication through sending and receiving wordless cues such as body language between two people. Communication can be through gestures and touch, body language, posture, facial expression, or eye contact. Face to face interactions of nonverbal communication can be classified into three areas: environmental ...

If you're looking for communication topics for research on non-verbal, take a look at the best 10 non-verbal topics below. The effect of nonverbal cues on the perception of dominance. The role of nonverbal communication in the formation of trust. The effect of context on the organization and interpretation of nonverbal cues.

Verbal communication is when we communicate using words exchange in the form of speech in writing or oral. Nonverbal communication does not use words for exchange a message. We use body language, facial expressions, sign language, and eye contact among a few things (Adler, Elmhorst, & Lucas, 2013). 1235 Words. 5 Pages.

In the video, several forms of nonverbal cues were displayed. However, four distinct nonverbal cues that will be discussed are attentiveness, eye contact, voice and gesture. Firstly, the most fundamental aspect of communication is voice. The use of voice, to put together a message to be conveyed is how millions of people communicate.

Study. Words: 3270 (14 pages) Non- verbal communication Non- verbal communication is a term that is used to refer to actions which are different from speech but which, just like speech, can be used to convey information from one person to the next; thereby facilitating communication. Such actions may include facial expressions, gesticulation ...

  • business plan
  • course work
  • research paper

IMAGES

  1. 2000 42' J Boats J/42 sailboat for sale in Newport Beach, CA. #

    j 42 sailboat for sale

  2. SailboatData.com

    j 42 sailboat for sale

  3. 1994 J Boats 42 for sale in Darien , Connecticut by Brewer Yacht Sales

    j 42 sailboat for sale

  4. J Boats J 42

    j 42 sailboat for sale

  5. J/42 Merlin

    j 42 sailboat for sale

  6. 1998 J Boats J42 à vendre. Voir le prix, les photos et Acheter 1998 J

    j 42 sailboat for sale

VIDEO

  1. Sailboat tours Lisbon

  2. J/Boats debuts the J/45 @the Annapolis Boat Show

  3. What Christmas looks like in the Bahamas (Ep30)

  4. Beneteau First 235 Sailboat

  5. Classic wooden sailboat crushed by 3 caterpillars

  6. 2023 Bavaria C42

COMMENTS

  1. J Boats J/42 for sale

    J Boats J/42 for sale 3 Boats Available. Currency $ - USD - US Dollar Sort Sort Order List View Gallery View Submit. Advertisement. New Arrival. Save This Boat. J Boats J/42 L, J42, J-42, J/42 . Newport, Rhode Island. 2001. $160,000 Seller McMichael Yacht Brokers LTD. 35. 1. Contact. 914-506-5372. ×. Save This Boat ...

  2. J/42 ARROWHEAD

    J/42 ARROWHEAD. Arrowhead is a wonderful cruising yacht with almost all systems and infrastructure recently updated to a high standard. Originally built for the J boat designer, Rob Johnstone, the manufacturer took special care to finish the interior with details usually found on much larger sailing yachts. As an example, you immediately notice ...

  3. Perfect J/42 Cruising Sailboat for Sale!

    A 2:1 main halyard, two deep-reefing points with Dutchman Sail Control operated from the cockpit, and a #3 headsail, is all you need to sail at hull speed in 15 knots of true wind. While classic in profile and layout, the J/42 stepped into the future when considering structural strength, performance, ease-of-handling, stability, and sailing ...

  4. J/42 Cruising/ Racing Sailboat for Sale

    Learn more about the J/42 sailboat for sale here. J/40 & J/42 Articles of Interest: J/Teams Dominate Annapolis to Newport Race Publication Date: 2021-06-14 19:24:56; Edlu Distance Race Crushed by J/Crews Publication Date: 2021-05-20 10:00:23; J's Excel in Challenging Annapolis Newport Race

  5. J Boats J 42 boats for sale

    The starting price is $160,000, the most expensive is $170,000, and the average price of $165,000. Related boats include the following models: J/105, J/100 and J/109. Boat Trader works with thousands of boat dealers and brokers to bring you one of the largest collections of J Boats J 42 boats on the market.

  6. New and used J Boats J42 for sale

    Used J Boats J42 for sale from around the world. Search our full range of used J Boats J42 on www.theyachtmarket.com. Close. Home; Boats for Sale; Sell Boats; Broker Directory; Charter; ... J Boats J/42. United States. £130,019 GBP Listed price $170,000 USD. 2000 | 12.80m | Sail. View details. All boats from East Coast Yacht Sales .

  7. J/42

    A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing", International Marine, Camden, Maine, 1991, states that a BN of 1 is generally accepted as the dividing line between so-called slow and fast multihulls.

  8. J Boats for sale

    206-558-1463. New Arrival. J Boats J/109. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. 2006. $164,900. "Legacy" is Hull # 288 and is in excellent condition. This is a very well equipped J109 and a Top performer that has been constantly upgraded with new sails and equipment. Race VC Offshore bottom burnished by Straight Marine.

  9. J Boats 42 boats for sale

    2000 Catalina 42 MkII. $125,000. ↓ Price Drop. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 | McNally Yacht Sales. <. 1. >. Find 28 J Boats 42 boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate J Boats dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader!

  10. J Boats for sale

    Find J Boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of J Boats to choose from. ... 1997 J Boats J/42. £105,617. ↓ Price Drop. Hill & Lowden, Inc. | Marblehead, Massachusetts. New Arrival; 2001 J Boats J/42 L, J42, J-42, J/42. £121,138. ↓ Price Drop. McMichael Yacht Brokers LTD. | Newport, Rhode ...

  11. J/42 Perfect Cruising Sailboat

    After a one hour sea-trial on Mother's Day 1996, we sailed 500 miles up, through the Straits of Mackinac and down the length of Lake Michigan to our homeport. That was the maiden voyage, 56 hours nonstop with 42 degree (F) water and ice floes still in the Straits. That's an average speed of 8 knots!

  12. J Boats for sale

    Find 35 J Boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate J Boats dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader! ... 2001 J Boats J/42 L, J42, J-42, J/42. $160,000. ↓ Price Drop. Newport, RI 02840 | McMichael Yacht Brokers LTD. Request Info; New Arrival; 2003 J Boats J/109.

  13. 42' J-Boats J42-1996-Portsmouth-100787059

    Hull #1 Originally built for Bob Johnstone (J Boats owner) as his demo boat. Pre-sale hull survey available for qualified buyers. While classic in profile and layout, J/42 steps into the future when considering structural strength performance, ease-of-handling, stability and sailing comfort.

  14. Boats for sale in Moscow, Idaho

    New and used Boats for sale in Moscow, Idaho on Facebook Marketplace. Find great deals and sell your items for free. › › › › Shop by Category. Sailboats. Sailboats. Filters. $3,000 $4,000. 1987 Bayliner capri. Pullman, WA. $4,300. 2000 Four Winns 1950. Moscow, ID. $40,500 $52,000. 1983 3 Buoys suncruiser ...

  15. 1980 jeanneau sailboat for sale

    I want to get mails about Recently added "jeanneau 1980" ads. I agree with the Terms of use and Terms of Privacy . Publication date. Last 15 Days; Most popular; Most ...

  16. 40' sailboat for sale

    catamaran; gulet; motorboat; powerboat; riverboat; sailboat; trimaran; yacht; yacht. 40' sailboat for sale. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter. 267

  17. J Boats J/42 for sale in United States

    View a wide selection of J Boats J/42 for sale in United States, explore detailed information & find your next boat on boats.com. #everythingboats

  18. jy sailboat for sale

    Welcome to our store. Item added to your cart. Nickels Boat Works. Couldn't load pickup availability. JY15 Sailboat. JY understands the weekend warrior in you. You don't have th