Actions Speak Louder Than Words: A Study in Body Language

Abstract

Communication among human beings is not merely narrowed to the oral transmission of thought but may even be expanded to include unspoken conversation. Body language transcends societal boundaries as it accurately provides authenticity in social interactions, further insinuating emotional intention. Throughout this study, the nature and connotations of non-verbal communication, or kinesics, is explored in detail as well as applied to prominent linguistic theories. Body language, a broad but versatile concept, is severely neglected by linguists as a topic of research and form of human communication. Cultural values and universal human qualities are essential themes within this study and are applied in multiple physical and social contexts. Personal expressions and interpretations concerning gender are also considered, as misinterpretations are common between communicators. As the influence of the differing gender categories are only briefly mentioned, the traditional binary gender system is utilized. While such a form of non-verbal communication may present opportunities for miscommunication cross-culturally, body language is ultimately credited as a significant tool by which to assess the complexities of human emotion. It is necessary to understand and apply the valuable knowledge that is to be gained by further research in the field of kinesics to further develop human connection.