Page 19 - Data Science class 10
P. 19
Paralanguage
Paralanguage includes tone of voice, loudness, speed of speech, pausing, and even silence. This helps you
understand the context and the meaning of the words used in the communication.
A cold tone of voice might suggest that you are actually not fine and don't wish to discuss it. A bright and happy
tone of voice will reveal that you are happy with the things going around in your life. Silence or vocal pauses can
communicate hesitation, the need to gather thought or serve as a sign of respect.
Haptics
Haptics is the power of touch in communication. Each touch conveys emotions and feelings in a physical form with
a unique message like fear, disgust, love, encouragement, gratitude, sympathy, anger, pain, violence, etc. Studies
have shown that it plays a very important role in the proper development of babies and in animals it works as a sign
of love and care. You may begin your interaction with people by shaking hands and making casual conversation.
This interaction can help establish trust before you start addressing your audience.
Advantages of Non-Verbal Communication
Some of the advantages of non-verbal communication are:
• It is used as complimentary with verbal communication to enhance the effect of communication.
• Information can be easily presented in non-verbal communication through gesture, body language, etc.
A teacher with a finger on the lips conveys not to talk and sit quietly to the whole class. A person addressing
a crowd uses voice modulation to get the attention of the crowd. Sometimes nodding your head to say yes is
enough to convey the message.
• Using gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, touch, etc. can be very helpful for the illiterate and physically
challenged, especially with hearing and speaking problems.
• It is useful and easy method of communication where no common language is required to master.
• It is a fast method of communication as gestures have more impact than words.
Disadvantages of Non-Verbal Communication
Some of the disadvantages of non-verbal communication are:
• Since it uses gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, touch, signs, sound, etc. for communication, there are
chances of misinterpretation of the message required to be delivered.
• Different cultures use different ways of non-verbal communication. The difference in message can lead to
negativity and offense. For example, people who speak less and are less interactive are considered cold and
arrogant. However, the Japanese admire silence and consider it as a key to success.
• Non-verbal communication does not follow any rules or structures, therefore, people unconsciously may engage
in non-verbal movements which are considered offensive.
• It is not suitable for long and lengthy messages as the actual message may get lost in a lengthy and
time-consuming conversation.
• Sometimes it is an incomplete form of communication and needs a support of verbal communication for
effective and meaningful delivery of a message.
• Distant communication is not possible using non-verbal communication.
1.4.3. Visual Communication
Visual Communication is the transmission and interpretation of information by using visual resources like
photographs, videos, art, drawings, sketches, charts and graphs. Visuals enhance the process of communication
during written or verbal communication for better understanding and a meaningful interpretation of the
information.
Communication Skills-II 17

