Nonverbal communication

Nonverbal communication is does not involve words, but is equally important in the healthcare setting.

1. Non verbal communication Shashiknth Nurse Consultant TVET Authority , Male , Maldives

2. Introduction Nonverbal communication is does not involve words, but is equally important in the healthcare setting. A great deal about others can be learnt simply by observing people or their nonverbal behaviour

3. Objective elements Identify the key components of non verbal communication. State the role of non verbal stimulus in communication Identify the key components of body language and their functions in communication Identify at least five qualities of an effective communicator.

4. What is nonverbal communication? Nonverbal Communication = Communication without words Nonverbal communication involves everything except spoken or written words. According to Kozier, Erb , Berman & Snyder, (2004) nonverbal communication is sometimes called body language and includes gestures, body movements, use of touch, and physical appearance, including adornment.

5. Importance of Nonverbal Communication Verbal & nonverbal Communication plays an important role in how people interact with one another. People are using around 35% verbal communication and 65% nonverbal communication in daily life.

6. Key components of nonverbal communication Facial expression Eye contact Gesture Touch Posture

7. Facial expression Facial expressions are the key characteristics of nonverbal communication. Your facial expression can communicate happiness, sadness, anger , silence , fear etc.

8. Eye contact Eye contact is an important form of nonverbal communication. Eye contact, a key characteristic of nonverbal communication, expresses much without using a single word. In American culture, maintaining eye contact shows respect and indicates interest. The way you look at someone communicates interest, affection, hostility, or attraction. Eye contact is also important in maintaining the flow of conversation and for gauging the other person's response.

9. Gesture A  gesture  is a characteristic of nonverbal communication in which visible body actions communicate particular message. Gestures include movement of the hands, face, or other parts of the body.

10. Touch Touch is another important part of nonverbal communication. Think about what the following conveys: A firm handshake. A timid tap on the shoulder. A warm bear hug. A reassuring pat on the back. A patronizing pat on the head. A controlling grip on your arm.

11. Posture Your posture includes how you hold your head, shoulders, legs, arms, and hips. Each of these parts of your body work separately as well as together to send non-verbal cues. Examples include tilting your head, slumping your shoulders, turning your hips sideways, and the like.

12. Role of nonverbal stimulus in communication Nonverbal communication either reinforces or contradicts the verbal message. For example, if a nurse says to a client, "I'd be happy to sit here and talk to you for a while," yet glances nervously at a watch every few seconds, the actions contradict the verbal message. The client is more likely to believe the nonverbal behaviour, which conveys "I am very busy and need to leave."

13. Contnd… Observing nonverbal behaviour requires a systematic assessment of the person's overall physical appearance, posture, gait, facial expressions, and gestures and whatever observed should be clarified from the client. For example, the nurse might say, "You look like you have been crying. Is something upsetting you?"

14. Key components of body language and their functions in communication FACE EYES POSTURE GESTURE VOICE TOUCH APPEARANCE

15. Qualities of an effective communicator Listen Simplify the Complex Knows When to Speak Up Confidence Specific Clarity Ask Questions