Write and submit 1 - 2 typed paragraphs for each question. Please remember to:
← Reflect, in your own words, the content of textbook lessons.
← Use complete sentences with proper paragraphing.
← Use standard grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
← Show good logic and organization, amplifying definitions with examples.
1. Briefly explain the importance of paralanguage. Give three distinct examples of how paralanguage might (1) contradict, (2) supplement, or (3) complement your verbal message. Paralanguage is important because the 6 vocal charactistics that it is composed of portray what type of person you are or how you are feeling. When you use a higher pitch you are perceived as nervous or afraid, where as a lower pitch you are perceived as peaceful or dad. Loud people appear pushy, quiet people appear timid. If you talk too fast you may not be understood, but if you talk too slow you will probably bore people. The quality of your voice also affects how people perceive you, as does the intonation. If you talk in a monotone voice, you will bore listeners, but if you have too much intonation you may appear ditzy. When you use too many vocalized pauses you will appear nervous or not sure of what you want to say.
“Well, wasn’t that an interesting book” To have this contradicted by paralanguage, the normal voice would have to be altered, “well” would have to vary in both tone and pitch and the rest would have to be spoken in staccato monotone. It would then be interpreted as sarcasm.
“Are we there yet” If the voice pitch rises with each word we would probably perceive the vocalic as supplementing the message.
“I am so happy that you are home” Spoken in a high expressive pitch, and a bit faster rate would be an example of how the paralanguage complements the verbal message. When you are happy or excited you tend to talk a bit faster and usually in a higher pitch