Bcom/275: Week 2 - Demonstrative Communication
Abstract
Demonstrative communication is a broad term encompassing the finer points of the communication process such as voice pitch, tone, and volume. The term is also applied to the nonverbal cues in communication like body language. Most people use and read demonstrative communication cues unconsciously; however, it is the largest part of the conversation process that portrays vital information to the listener. According to livestrong.com, non-verbal (or demonstrative) communication makes up fifty-five percent of the communication process (Lee, 2011). This paper discusses the pros and cons of demonstrative communication, and how it is used to influence conversation. Demonstrative Communication: How important is it? Imagine speaking to someone who stood incredibly still, used no facial expressions, and spoke in a monotone voice. That would be wildly uncomfortable for nearly anyone on the receiving end! Demonstrative communication is a large aspect of conversation. Body language, or “nonverbal, usually unconscious, communication through the use of postures, gestures, facial expressions, and the like,” is an everyday part of conversation (body language, n.d.). It is perhaps the most familiar component of demonstrative communication. Small, simple gestures such as leaning back or crossing one’s arms can convey to the speaker disinterest or defensiveness (nonverbal communication, 2009). Another aspect of demonstrative communication is vocal. Again, this component is usually unconscious. Vocal pitch, tone, and volume all play an integral part in what the receiver’s emotions understand and process when communicating. Aside from these standard factors in demonstrative communication, strictly nonverbal communication is an underlying portion as well. A simple nod of the head to convey, “Yes” or a wave of the hand to say, “hello” are commonplace and well understood in most cultures around the world. Regardless of how demonstrative communication is applied in
Demonstrative communication is a broad term encompassing the finer points of the communication process such as voice pitch, tone, and volume. The term is also applied to the nonverbal cues in communication like body language. Most people use and read demonstrative communication cues unconsciously; however, it is the largest part of the conversation process that portrays vital information to the listener. According to livestrong.com, non-verbal (or demonstrative) communication makes up fifty-five percent of the communication process (Lee, 2011). This paper discusses the pros and cons of demonstrative communication, and how it is used to influence conversation. Demonstrative Communication: How important is it? Imagine speaking to someone who stood incredibly still, used no facial expressions, and spoke in a monotone voice. That would be wildly uncomfortable for nearly anyone on the receiving end! Demonstrative communication is a large aspect of conversation. Body language, or “nonverbal, usually unconscious, communication through the use of postures, gestures, facial expressions, and the like,” is an everyday part of conversation (body language, n.d.). It is perhaps the most familiar component of demonstrative communication. Small, simple gestures such as leaning back or crossing one’s arms can convey to the speaker disinterest or defensiveness (nonverbal communication, 2009). Another aspect of demonstrative communication is vocal. Again, this component is usually unconscious. Vocal pitch, tone, and volume all play an integral part in what the receiver’s emotions understand and process when communicating. Aside from these standard factors in demonstrative communication, strictly nonverbal communication is an underlying portion as well. A simple nod of the head to convey, “Yes” or a wave of the hand to say, “hello” are commonplace and well understood in most cultures around the world. Regardless of how demonstrative communication is applied in
References: Lee, B. (2011). Livestrong. Retrieved from: http://www.livestrong.com/article/141480-what-is-verbal-non-verbal-communication/ body language. (n.d.). Dictionary.com Unabridged. Retrieved March 24, 2012, from Dictionary.com: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/body language "Nonverbal Communication." Encyclopedia of Management. 2009. Retrieved March 24, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G2-3273100201.html Maximum advantage. (2011). Retrieved from: http://www.maximumadvantage.com/nonverbal-communication/ Mabille, J. (2012). Health guidance. Retrieved from: http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/11756/1/Body-Language-Lying-Signs.html Andrews University. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://www2.andrews.edu/~tidwell/bsad560/NonVerbal.html