Cultural Differences in Nonverbal Communication Essay

When communicating, only a small percent of the exchange is verbal. The larger part of the message is made up of body language or movements, known as nonverbal communication. The reason for people using nonverbal communication is to enhance the message they are sending to the receiver. One way nonverbal communication differs is through cultural differences. Cultural differences have a significant impact on nonverbal communication as cultures differ greatly in their nonverbal interpretations and responses. Firstly, this essay will prove how kinesics can create barriers between people as types of nonverbal cues differ amongst cultures. It will then show that paralinguistics can be based on cultural expectations and this can create†¦show more content†¦A gesture such as this could have resulted in dire consequences, fortunately, things were explained, the discussion was allowed to continue, and the two mechanics were released. Richmond acknowledges that Paul Ekman and associ ates have conducted research on kinesics for almost thirty years, and based on the research, only six of the many emotions are visually expressed in universal ways, Richmond and McCroskey (2003). So ultimately, not only are there different ways for one to verbally express themselves, there is also a large amount of kinesics being portrayed by them that carries different meanings in different cultures, which brings about barriers. Paralinguistics or paralanguage is the sound element that refers to the non-verbal components of communication conducted to alter meaning and convey emotion. Paralinguistics may be expressed consciously or unconsciously, and it includes the pitch, timbre and accent (Tyler, Kossen Ryan 2005). The pitch and timbre of the way things are said can mean one thing in one culture, while in another cultures it can have a completely different meaning, and this can cause stereotyping. For instance, the concept that Americans voice themselves too loud is often deciphered by Arabic cultures as strength, whiles it indicates impoliteness to the Taiwanese. According to Delgado and Kobayashi (2011), everyone speaks with an accent or aShow MoreRelatedEssay on Nonverbal Communication and Cultural Differences1649 Words   |  7 PagesNonverbal communication has always played an important role in the entire communication process. It may include gestures, kinesics, haptics and other means, which a pe rson incorporates into the communication process. These acts make the communication process more effective and meaningful. However, nonverbal communication is highly influenced by cultural differences as the context of the culture defines how the message is interpreted. 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