Notes on Non-Verbal Communication and Expectancy Violation Theory

Contexts Affect Meaning

• Communication is multi-faceted and involves both verbal and non-verbal cues.

Non-Verbal Communication

• Key Quote: "The most important thing in [the] communication [context] is to hear what isn’t being said.” ~ Peter F. Drucker
• Non-verbal cues can convey messages that words may not capture effectively.

Complexity of Nonverbal Behavior

• Visual & Auditory Codes:

  • Kinesics: body movements and gestures.
  • Physical Appearance: how appearance impacts perceptions.
  • Vocalics: tone of voice and its importance.

• Contact Codes:

  • Haptics: use of touch in communication.
  • Proxemics: how space and distance affect interaction.

Importance of Non-Verbal Behavior Internationally

• Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role on global platforms, influencing understanding across cultures.

Space & Territory

• Space: Refers to the distance between individuals in interaction.
• Territoriality: Refers to areas or objects individuals feel ownership of.

Proxemics Zones

• Intimate Space/Distance: Touching – up to 18 inches; conveys psychological closeness.
• Personal Space/Distance: 18 inches to 4 feet; often represents family and friends as part of personal “bubble.”
• Social Space/Distance: 4 feet to 12 feet; seen in social interactions.
• Public Space/Distance: 12 feet and beyond; tends to create a sense of impersonality.

Territoriality

• Expresses ownership of areas or objects:
  • Primary: exclusive domain.
  • Secondary: some connection to the individual.
  • Public: no personal affiliation, accessible to all.

Expectancy Violation Theory

• Examination of how people react to violations of expectations in interactions.

Key Concepts of Expectancy Violation Theory

1. Threat Threshold:

   • The level of discomfort experienced when personal space is encroached upon.
   • High tolerance vs. Low tolerance.
   • Note: "IF YOU CAN READ THIS YOU'RE TOO CLOSE."

2. Arousal:

   • Increased attention/interest when space is violated.
   • Cognitive: Mental awareness shifts focus.
   • Physical: Physiological changes occur.

3. Violation Valence:

   • How unexpected behavior is assessed on a positive/negative continuum.
   • Factors into how individuals interpret and respond to violations.
   • Possible responses include reward (decreasing space) or punishment (increasing space).

4. Communicator Reward Valence:

   • Total of positive and negative attributes of a person influencing perception of their behavior.
   • High Reward Source: Positive evaluation of violation.
   • Low Reward Source: Negative evaluation, leading to further distancing or engagement.
   • Important questions include: “What can you do for me?” and “What might you do to me?”