Demonstrative Communication Seretta Lawson BCOM 275 April 9, 2013 Jimmy Mendoza Abstract

Demonstrative Communication Communication defined as the process of passing and receiving messages from one person to another. In regard to communication there are four types, verbal (spoken communication), non-verbal communication or demonstrative, written communication, and visualization communication. The bulk of messages that people send are nonverbal. Fifty-five percent of the meaning people send is contained in facial expressions, 38 percent of the meaning is contained in the voice and 7 percent of the meaning is contained in the words, (Mehrabian & Weiner, 1967). Demonstrative communication involves the process of sending and receiving informational messages by non-verbal, unwritten, through facial expressions, body language, and the tone of voice one uses. The behaviors of the body: posture, gestures, body orientation, and facial expressions can be positive or negative. Facial expressions of a wide smile displaying many teeth would be interpreted as a facial expression that is intended to be positive but a frown would be interpreted as a negative facial expression, but grins could be interpreted as either positive or negative. Eye contact is an important quality to have other individuals because shows others that an individual is confident and knowledgeable in certain subject matters at hand, but if an individual looks down at the floor or up at the ceiling and crosses one’s arms is perceived as negative body language, in which it excludes confidence in themselves and for the subject matter at hand. An individual’s body language is the most important factor in how a message is received. For example, the gesture for hitchhiking-thumb up also can be the signal for approval such as “thumbs up.” An individual who displays the proper posture many be perceived as more attentive toward an instructor over an individual with poor posture. Vocal messages with regard to volume, tone, and pitch can influence the intended meaning of the message and could be conceive as positive or negative. The word, “hey” if said in a slow, soft voice could be perceived the same as hello. The same word stated quickly, and in a loud voice could be used in a negative manner or to draw attention to someone or something. Effective ways for a sender and receiver to communicate in a demonstrative way would be to send the right message, making sure the message received is correct, and making sure it is comprehended and understood by the other person or receiver, (Effective Communication, 2012). Demonstrative communication, involves effective listening and responding. Providing feedback is part of responding and is given to ensure the message is understood, which may require an individual to