New study explores the vital role nonverbal communication

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Carmichael, C. L., & Mizrahi, M. (2023). Connecting cues: The role of nonverbal cues in perceived responsiveness. Current Opinion in Psychology, 53, 101663

Introduction

Carmichael and Mizrahi (2023) review the literature on the impact of nonverbal behaviors on conveying responsiveness in interpersonal relationships. Responsiveness, defined as the ability to listen and respond supportively, is critical in establishing and maintaining satisfying relationships. This study emphasizes the importance of nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, vocal tone, touch, and body language in communicating understanding, validation, and care.

Methods

The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review integrating findings from studies on nonverbal behavior and relationship science.

They explored effects of facial expressions, like smiling or frowning, vocal cues, like tone, pitch, and pace of speech, use of physical touch, like as a comforting pat or a hug, and body language, like crossed arms or nodding.

Results

  • Nonverbal Cues as Primary Indicators of Responsiveness: Nonverbal signals are often interpreted more quickly and can carry more weight than verbal communication. For example, a person may not believe a verbal apology if it is not accompanied by genuine nonverbal signals such as eye contact and an open, remorseful posture.
  • Context-Dependent Influence: The effectiveness of nonverbal versus verbal cues varies depending on the context. In emotionally charged situations, nonverbal cues often play a dominant role in conveying empathy and understanding. Conversely, verbal responses may be more effective in contexts that require clarity and explicit information.
  • Complementary Role of Verbal and Nonverbal Cues: The study highlighted the importance of aligning verbal and nonverbal messages. When verbal and nonverbal cues are congruent, they reinforce each other, leading to greater perceived responsiveness. Incongruence, however, can create confusion and reduce perceived sincerity and trustworthiness.

Discussion

The findings underscore the vital role nonverbal communication plays in perceived responsiveness within interpersonal relationships. Authors suggest that understanding the interplay between verbal and nonverbal cues can enhance relational dynamics, especially in therapeutic contexts where conveying empathy and support is paramount.

Furthermore, authors advocate for identifying the “active ingredients” in nonverbal signals, to support the development and efficacy testing of training practices for those working in contexts where relationship building is paramount.

Implications for Mentoring Programs

  • Training: Training programs should consider and discuss the importance of nonverbal signals with their mentors. Specifically training may want to consider both mentor and mentee nonverbal cues to improve relationship building.
  • Virtual Nonverbal Signaling: In virtual mentoring programs, it may be important to pay specific attention to the effects of facial nonverbal cues, given low access to other kinds of nonverbal signaling.
  • Cultural Considerations: Programs should consider nonverbal signals in a cultural context. Indeed, emotion socialization practices and facial expression norms may differ drastically cross culturally. Thus programs will want to discuss differences in normative emotion expressiveness, and provide ongoing supervision to address issues that arise.

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