WAYS OF COMMUNICATION

When we communicate with others, we express our thoughts and feelings not only through the words we choose but also through our tone of voice, facial expression and body language. In fact, many communication experts believe that far more information is communicated non-verbally (without words) than verbally (with words). ‘Body language’ is an important part of non-verbal communication.

Body language includes many different aspects of our everyday physical behaviour. The way we greet one another, how we stand, how we sit or walk and the way we position our arms and legs or use our hands and eyes are some of the most basic.

To learn another language is more than just learning its words and grammar. It involves learning about another culture, too. We learn much of our own culture’s body language before we learn to speak. That body language varies from culture to culture, so it’s something to which second language learners should pay attention to.

How familiar are you with other people’s body language? Try this little experiment. Turn the volume on the television down while you watch people interact on the screen. You may find it is more difficult to understand what’s happening between people from unfamiliar cultures.

Sometimes, cultural differences inappropriate body language can cause discomfort or misunderstandings, too. For example, there are definitely cultural differences in how much distance should be kept between two people who are speaking together. If you are used to people keeping their distance, you will feel very uncomfortable and probably move away repeatedly if someone keeps trying to stand closer to you at a party! We call this distance the ‘personal comfort zone’.

Another common example of misunderstanding is the use of a smile. In some Asian cultures, a smile can show embarrassment or apology. However, smiling back at a teacher who is unhappy with you or a stranger whose foot you accidentally stepped upon is probably not a good idea in most English-speaking cultures! Also, you should not assume that nodding your head always means ‘yes’ or that shaking your head always means ‘no’ or vice versa.

Even speakers of the same language, such as British, American and Australian people, may not use the same body language and must adapt if they wish to communicate successfully. British people are said to be more reserved and formal in general, and this is reflected in their body language. Americans are considered more open and outgoing, while Australians are seen as casual and relaxed.