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Chapter 4: Analyzing Nonverbal Communication
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We experience our words and gestures as expressions of our individuality,
but at the same time, our words and gestures are expressions
of larger social conventions of which we are merely taking part.
Without social conventions and shared meaning, communication
would be impossible. So paradoxically, in order to express our
individuality, we require expressions and gestures that are
anything but our own.
One important aspect of expressing ourselves is nonverbal
communication. Visit Social_Psychology.Net at www.usi.edu/libarts/socio/socpsy/socpsy.htm
to see how much you already know about nonverbal communication
and to learn more. Then, undertake a three-day study in which
you analyze your own nonverbal communication. For the first
two days, keep a catalogue of your gestures and expressions.
On the third day make a conscious effort to change your nonverbal
communication habits. Do people react to you differently?
What has your study taught you about the importance of nonverbal
communication? Write up your results and present them to your
class.
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