Tuesday, February 2, 2010

An Outline of Static Body Language

Purpose: Use this learning aid to investigate the static features of body language.

Body orientation
Body orientation is the position of the other person's upper body in relation to your own. This angular distance reveals how people relate to, or feel about, each other. The upper body unconsciously faces square on to, or aims at, people you like and agree with, but angles away from those you dislike or with whom you disagree. The greater the angular distance, the less rapport there is between the people concerned. Angular distance ranges from zero degrees – directly facing, to 180 degrees – turning your back.

Proxemics
The study of proxemics was first started by the anthropologist Edward Hall. He investigated people's use of their personal space and how this personal territory is protected from the intrusion of outsiders. Although it varies for different individuals and circumstances, it can generally be categorized as follows:

intimate distance for embracing or whispering – between six and eighteen inches
personal distance for conversations among good friends – between 1.5 and four feet
social distance for conversations among acquaintances – between four and 12 feet
public distance used for public speaking – 12 feet or more
Study of non-verbal behaviors indicates that everyone perceives a distance that is appropriate for different types of messages and establishes a comfortable distance for personal interaction. Violation of this personal space can have serious adverse effects on communication.

Posture
The postures of the upper body reflect key emotional states and, as they are made unconsciously, they are more reliable indicators of a person's mood than movement of the arms or legs.

bending or leaning away from someone is a sign of disagreement, disliking, or shyness
sudden significant shifts in posture can also demonstrate negative feelings
bowing forward with the head down is a response that shows submissiveness
leaning forward with the head up shows a positive interest in the other person
raised shoulders denotes fear or tension, while stooped shoulders signals negativity
A body posture can be closed or open. Someone who does not feel comfortable with another person will often assume a closed position by crossing arms or legs or holding an object, such as a bag or a file, in front of the body. This provides a protective barrier for those who feel vulnerable because of feelings such as anxiety, nervousness or disagreement.

Physical contact or tactile communication
Used properly, tactile communication can transmit a more direct message than dozens of words; used improperly it can build barriers and cause mistrust. You can easily invade someone's space through this type of communication. If it is used reciprocally, it indicates solidarity; if not used reciprocally, it tends to indicate differences in status. Touch not only facilitates the sending of the message, but the emotional impact of the message as well. There are five categories of touch.

functional – touch during a profession interaction such as by a doctor, dentist or hairdresser
social/polite – usually involves a handshake or a pat on the shoulder
friendship – touch to show warmth such as hugs and pecks on the cheek
love/Intimacy – prolonged hugs and the holding of hands
sexual – inappropriate in the workplace