Dimensions of Communication

Dimensions of Communication

• Communication can be verbal or non-verbal.
• Verbal communication refers to the use of words, spoken or written.
• Non-verbal communication includes body language, gestures, facial expressions, and even the way we dress.
• Non-verbal communication accounts for 65% of communication, while verbal communication accounts for 35%.

Types of Verbal Communication

• Spoken verbal communication involves conversations, speeches, and phone calls.
• Written verbal communication includes text messages and letters.

Register

• Register refers to the level of formality in communication and how it affects language use.
• Formal register is used in settings where meticulous observation of appropriateness is required, such as apology letters and university application letters.
• Informal register is used in casual settings where formalities are not strictly observed.

Intention in Communication

• Speak intentionally and be mindful of the potential impact of your words, especially in written communication.
• Reconsider a message before sending to avoid unintentionally upsetting someone.

Paralanguage

• Paralanguage refers to the way something is said, including tone, intonation, voice, volume, and hesitation.
• It can convey messages beyond words, even through physical items like gifts.
• Examples of paralanguage include sarcasm, which conveys the opposite of what is said, and the meaning of flowers, which vary across cultures.

Chronemics

• Chronemics refers to the study of the relationship between time and communication.
• The way we perceive and react to time can influence how we communicate, especially in terms of power dynamics.
• Arriving last at an event can be a display of authority and power.

Proxemics

• Proxemics is the study of personal space and how individuals maintain distance from each other in social situations.
• Every individual has a radius of personal space, with varying degrees of acceptable proximity depending on the relationship.
• Personal space includes:
  • Public space
  • Social space
  • Personal space

Haptics

• Haptics is the use of touch to convey messages.
• Forms of haptics include a kiss on the hand, a hug, a handshake, and a shoulder massage.
• Be mindful of cultural and gender norms when using touch to avoid unintended messages or offense.

Gestures

• Gestures are movements of the hands and head that convey meaning in communication.
• There are four types of gestures:
  • Emphasizing: To highlight a specific part of the message.
  • Regulating: To control the flow of communication.
  • Illustrating: To visually represent an object, size, or distance.
  • Emblems: Gestures with specific meanings, such as putting a hand on the chest during the national anthem.

Facial Expressions

• Facial expressions are movements of the face that convey emotions without verbal expression.
• There are seven basic expressions: Happiness, sadness, anger, fear, surprise, disgust, and contempt.

Personal Appearance

• Personal appearance is a form of non-verbal communication that involves decorating or modifying the body to communicate meaning.
• Examples include clothing, tattoos, hairstyles, and jewelry.
• Culture plays a role in how personal appearance is interpreted.

Silence

• Silence can be a form of non-verbal communication.
• The interpretation of silence varies across cultures.
• In the Philippines, silence can indicate a refusal to communicate.
• In the U.S., silence can be used as a form of protest.
• In Japan, silence is considered the highest form of respect.

Explore the various aspects of communication, including verbal and non-verbal methods, types, and the importance of register and intention. This quiz covers how communication influences meaning and understanding in different contexts.