Lesson 4: Nonverbal Communication & Digital Cues

Vocabulary flashcards defining nonverbal communication concepts, functions, channels, and digital cues based on the lecture material.

Nonverbal Communication

The use of facial expressions, gestures, body language, tone of voice, and other nonverbal cues to express and exchange information, thoughts, and feelings.

Substitute

A function of nonverbal communication where nonverbal cues take the place of spoken words.

Complement

A function of nonverbal communication that adds to and supports the meaning of spoken words.

Contradict

A function of nonverbal communication where nonverbal cues conflict with the spoken message.

Accent

A function of nonverbal communication that emphasizes part of the message.

Repeat

A function of nonverbal communication that restates the message.

Regulate

A function of nonverbal communication used to manage the flow of a conversation.

Kinesics

Body movements such as facial expressions, gestures, and posture.

Vocalics

Vocal qualities that accompany speech, such as tone, pitch, volume, and speaking rate; also called paralanguage.

Pitch

How high or low the voice sounds.

Volume

How loud or soft the voice is.

Rate

How fast or slow a person speaks.

Tone

The emotional mood or character of voice.

Proxemics

The use of physical space and distance during interaction.

Haptics

Communication through touch, which may express support, welcome, or closeness.

Functional-Professional Touch

Touch used to complete a task or provide a service.

Social-Polite Touch

Touch used in respectful social interactions.

Friendship-Warmth Touch

Touch that shows care or support between friends.

Love-Intimacy Touch

Touch shared in close personal relationships.

Chronemics

The use of time to communicate attitudes and relationships.

Personal Presentation

Communication through appearance, belongings, and surroundings that can shape first impressions.

Artifacts & Symbols

Jewelry, tattoos, piercings, or cultural symbols that can communicate identity and affiliations.

Digital Communication Cues

Unspoken, virtual signals that replace missing face-to-face body language and tone, such as emojis, punctuation, response times, and formatting.

Visual Media Cues

GIFs, memes, stickers, and photos/videos that can replace or strengthen missing nonverbal cues.