The text states that although verbal communication directs the task and process aspects of the group discussion, nonverbal communication forms the context in which we discuss them (Harris & Sherblom, 2011, p. 98). Furthermore, there are eight guiding principles for nonverbal communication in terms of small groups.
The first principle is the quality of the relationships among group members is created through nonverbal behavior. This means our nonverbal indicators reflect how we feel about a person or situation. For example, the proximity in which we sit next in relation to other group members, or our facial expressions while other members are speaking. Our nonverbal behavior also serves as a reflection of ourselves as well since it allows other group members to interpret our words and actions.
The fifth principle of nonverbal communication is that groups operate within the norms and expectations of the culture of which they are a part. While the dominant culture of the United States is likely to dictate the norms of smaller groups, people from other cultures will respond differently to the group process based on their sociocultural context or based on the norms of their native culture.
Hello Daisy, great job with your response. “Our nonverbal behavior also serves as a reflection of ourselves as well since it allows other group members to interpret our words and actions.” I agree with this statement. I think that our nonverbal behavior and interaction with others serves as a reflection of how comfortable we feel around that person. I also agree with the principal that dominant culture in the U.S. is likely to dictate the norms of smaller groups. The dominate culture’s dictate group norms. I definitely see this going on all around us. You did a great job answering this week’s
ReplyDeletediscussion question
Hi Daisy,
ReplyDeleteYou wrote a great post on the eight guiding principles for nonverbal communication. The book states that an estimated 65% to 93% or a message’s meaning is nonverbal (Harris & Sherbloom, 2011, p. 98). So comprehending the eight guiding principles for nonverbal communication is important. Nonverbal communication depicts our attitudes towards an individual more than our verbal statement of feelings towards them. This can mean how we react when we see them, such as smile, or expression of excitement. Another principle that I appreciated was that our nonverbal communication is likely to be believed more than our verbal communication. The book states the popular saying “You can’t talk your way out of something you behaved your way into” (Harris & Sherbloom, 2011, p. 98). We cannot contradict what we say with our actions. People will believe our actions over what we say. I leave you with another popular saying, “Your actions speak louder than words”. Great post!