ABSchey - Nonverbal Communication

There are many ways we get our messages across that don't involve spoken words called nonverbal communication. We use our faces, bodies, and objects in our environment to convey messages every day without even knowing it. Some individuals are severely limited in their ability to communicate verablly due to cognitive disabilities or physical impairments. The hearing impaired community, people with cerebral palsy and a person who has been disabled in a car accident are all examples of people who may use another means of communication than what we are used to. Learning more about the various ways people can "talk" without using spoken words will not only help you be a more effective speaker, but it will help you communicate with populations that rely soley on nonverbal communication.

TYPES OF NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION

What does it mean when someone gives you this sign? Click to find out more about communication through hand gestures and American Sign Language.

Can you tell what this little boy is feeling just by looking at him? Click to see how people communicate through facial expressions.

Can you tell what message Joe Montana is trying to convey to his fans and team by his body language?

What do you think it could mean if a person pointed to a picture of a hamburger and french fries? Click to learn about augmentative and/or alternative communication (AAC).