Non-verbal Communication An Essential Cultural Dimension

Abstract

Communication embodies verbal and non-verbal signs. Among the various non-verbal signs, body language is very important and helps to understand the message transmitted. It varies from a culture to another and is generally indicative of the culture one belongs to. It includes gestures, facial expressions, touch, glance, body motion, eye contact, proximity and so on.
Non-verbal communication (which is perhaps the most important component of communication) responds to cultural rules. Ignoring or violating these rules may lead to confusing, misleading or embarrassing situations that may break the whole process of communication (which is the most important component of communication). What is perceived as normal in one culture can be perceived as illogical, rude or shocking in another. The fact that all cultures have internal variations, and that they continuously evolve, adds up to the difficulty of understanding cultures.