Communication

nonverbalowl, (2009). nonverbal communication owls. 

Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A68fL1y8ZQ&feature=related

Man has used non-verbal communication from the beginning of time, has developed the ability to express his environment what he thinks and feels through his body. These expressions and signs have taken on different meanings depending on the cultural influence to which each individual is exposed. In this type of communication there are not many studies due to the complexity and extent of the subject, is not well documented but because of its importance has taken a leading role in many new researches.

[Untitled photograph of facial expressions

]. 

Retrieved April 04, 2011, 

from: http://englishcommunicationcourse.wikispaces.com/Group+Project+1

Many gestures are used in the same way in most countries, although these may vary according to the place we are, this is due to the cultural influence of the environment in which we find ourselves. In many countries, expressions that could be taken as universals are not, unlike they could have a negative or opposite meaning to what is wanted to be express. For example:

• The sign of the "V" with the palm out means victory while with the palm inward means an obscene insult
• The thumb up or down to indicate agreement or disagreement means an insult in Greece and in other countries simply means the number one.
• In Western culture, eye contact is interpreted as attentiveness and honesty but in many other cultures, however, including Hispanic, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Native American, eye contact is thought to be disrespectful or rude. In some cultures women may especially avoid eye contact with men because it can be taken as a sign of sexual interest.
• Hands in pocket is disrespectful in Turkey
• Islamic and Hindu:  typically don’t touch with the left hand.  To do so is a social insult.  Left hand is for toilet functions. 

[Untitled photograph of cultural differences in nonverbal communication]. 

Retrieved April 04, 2011, 

from: 

http://sielearning.tafensw.edu.au/MCS/9362/Sterilisation%20disk%203/lo/7374/7374_00.htm

Andrews University. Non-Verbal Communication Modes. Retrieved April 11, 2011 

from:http://www.andrews.edu/~tidwell/lead689/NonVerbal.html

Vermont Department of Health. Cultural Differences in Non-Verbal Communication. Retrieved April 11, 2011 

from: http://healthvermont.gov/family/toolkit/tools%5CF-6%20Cultural%20Differences%20in%20Nonverbal%20Communic.pdf