Demonstrative Paper Week 2

Demonstrative Communication

BCOM/275 Version 1

28 March 2012

Demonstrative Communication

What is Communication? Webster’s dictionary defines it as a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior. Communication can mean different things to different people. To a student, it means learning new skills. To an employee, it is a way to ensure that the job is getting done as well as ensuring that you understand the message your supervisor is trying to convey. To a husband, it is a method of receiving praise or chastisement from your spouse (Cheesbro, O’Connor, and Rios, 2010). Communication can be verbal and nonverbal. Verbal communication includes facial expressions, body gestures and eye contact. Written communication can be done via emails, social networking, articles and newspapers. The ability to understand and use nonverbal communication will help you interact with other, express what you mean, resolve conflict, and build strong relationships.

Nonverbal communication or body language is a vital form of communication that broadcasts our true feelings and intentions in any given moment (Segal, Smith & Jaffe, 2012). The facial expressions, body language, and attitude expressed while conversing with someone is a key how that person receives your nonverbal message. As a child, I recollect being told what chores to do and places I could not go. In my parent’s household it was not customary to talk back or challenge their decisions. My only form of communication during these interactions was the way I reacted to their decisions. Many times my body language would project a message that I didn’t care or that I was upset. This would be clearly observed by my parents and would cause the conversations to continue until they were assured that their message was delivered and understood. What I did not understand is that my nonverbal behavior is what caused these conversations to be prolonged....