What is nonverbal communication?

• A. Exchange of information with words
• B. Exchange of information using only spoken language
• C. Exchange of information without words, including facial expressions, gestures, postures, eye contact, body language, and mannerisms; Some researchers suggest it accounts for 4x as much
• D. Written communication only

Answer: (C)

Nonverbal communication is the exchange of information without words, using facial expressions, gestures, postures, eye contact, body language, and mannerisms. It often conveys emotions and attitudes more powerfully than spoken words and can reinforce, contradict, or add nuance to what is said. People rely on these cues to interpret others’ comfort, interest, trust, or distress, which is especially important in clinical and therapeutic interactions where tone and body signals influence understanding and rapport. The idea that nonverbal signals can carry more meaning than words reflects how much these cues shape interpretation, though exact proportions vary by context. The other descriptions focus on verbal or written forms of communication, which do not capture the essence of nonverbal signaling.