Non-Verbal Communication: Types, Importance and Limitations Questions

Question 1

Define non-verbal communication.

Accepted Answer

Non-verbal communication is communication without words through body language, tone, space, time and symbols.

Question 2

What is kinesics?

Accepted Answer

Kinesics is communication through body movements such as gestures, posture and facial expressions.

Question 3

What is paralanguage?

Accepted Answer

Paralanguage refers to vocal features like tone, pitch, volume, pace and pauses.

Question 4

Define proxemics.

Accepted Answer

Proxemics is the study of personal space and distance in communication.

Question 5

Give one example of haptics.

Accepted Answer

Handshake is an example of haptics (touch communication).

Question 6

State one limitation of non-verbal communication.

Accepted Answer

Non-verbal cues can be misinterpreted and are culture-specific.

Question 7

List any three types of non-verbal communication.

Accepted Answer

Kinesics (body language), paralanguage (voice), proxemics (space), oculesics (eye contact), haptics (touch) are types (any three).

Question 8

Explain importance of eye contact in business communication.

Accepted Answer

Eye contact shows attention and confidence and helps build trust. Proper eye contact improves understanding and makes interaction more effective. Too much or too little should be avoided depending on culture and context.

Question 9

Differentiate between kinesics and proxemics.

Accepted Answer

Kinesics relates to body movements like gestures, posture and facial expressions. Proxemics relates to the use of space and distance maintained between people during communication.

Question 10

Explain paralanguage with examples.

Accepted Answer

Paralanguage includes tone, pitch, volume, speed and pauses. Example: a polite tone shows respect; a harsh tone shows anger. Speaking too fast may show nervousness; pauses can improve clarity.

Question 11

Why can non-verbal communication lead to misunderstanding?

Accepted Answer

Non-verbal cues can have different meanings across cultures and individuals. Receiver may interpret gestures/expressions incorrectly. Also non-verbal may contradict verbal message, creating confusion.

Question 12

Write any three ways to improve non-verbal communication.

Accepted Answer

Maintain open posture and appropriate eye contact, use polite tone and controlled gestures, respect personal space and be punctual. Dress professionally and match non-verbal cues with words.

Question 13

Explain types of non-verbal communication with examples.

Accepted Answer

Non-verbal communication is communication without words and includes various forms:

1) Kinesics (body language): facial expressions, gestures, posture, head nods.
2) Oculesics (eye behaviour): eye contact, gaze, blinking.
3) Paralanguage: tone, pitch, volume, speed, pauses.
4) Proxemics: personal space and distance maintained during interaction.
5) Haptics: touch (e.g., handshake) used carefully in workplace.
6) Appearance and artifacts: dress, grooming, symbols, uniforms.
7) Chronemics: use of time, punctuality, waiting.
8) Silence: can indicate thinking, agreement, discomfort depending on context.

These forms support or sometimes contradict verbal communication and strongly influence impressions in business.

Question 14

Explain importance of non-verbal communication in business.

Accepted Answer

Importance of non-verbal communication in business:

- Expresses feelings and attitudes clearly (confidence, sincerity, friendliness).
- Supports verbal messages and increases impact (gestures, expressions).
- Helps build rapport and trust with customers and colleagues.
- Useful in interviews, presentations, negotiations and leadership.
- Provides immediate feedback to the speaker (nodding, expressions).
- Helps detect hidden concerns when words are not clear.

However, it must be used carefully because meanings can differ by culture and context.

Question 15

Explain limitations of non-verbal communication and how to reduce them.

Accepted Answer

Limitations of non-verbal communication:

1) Misinterpretation: same gesture may have different meaning to different people.
2) Culture-specific meanings: eye contact, gestures and distance vary by culture.
3) Not suitable for complex/technical details; cannot replace written record.
4) Difficult to document as evidence.
5) Non-verbal may contradict verbal message causing confusion.
6) Personal bias: receiver may judge incorrectly based on appearance.

How to reduce limitations:
- match non-verbal cues with words
- observe context and cultural differences
- use clear verbal/written communication for important messages
- maintain professionalism in appearance and behaviour.

Non-Verbal Communication: Types, Importance and Limitations

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