Appendix D

Nonverbal and Verbal Communication

Use the table below to compare and contrast characteristics of nonverbal and verbal communication for audiences in relaxed situations (family members and friends) and audiences in tense situations (supervisors and instructors). List at least three items for each category.

Use the Tab key to move from one cell to the next. The cells will expand to accommodate your content.

Examples of Situation Events
Audience Nonverbal Communication Verbal Communication
Relaxed Situation:
Family Members & Friends
Eye Contact
Body Language
Facial Expression


Tense Situation:
Supervisors & Instructors

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To compare and contrast characteristics of nonverbal and verbal communication for audiences in relaxed situations (family members and friends) and audiences in tense situations (supervisors and instructors), you can consider the following points for each category:

Nonverbal Communication:

Relaxed Situation (Family Members & Friends):
1. Eye Contact: In relaxed situations, maintaining eye contact is often more casual and frequent. People tend to look at each other more often while communicating to show interest and connection.
2. Body Language: In relaxed situations, individuals tend to have more open body language, such as leaning in, relaxed posture, and open gestures. This communicates comfort and a willingness to engage.
3. Facial Expression: In relaxed situations, people may display more genuine and relaxed facial expressions, such as smiles, laughter, and expressions of warmth, happiness, or surprise.

Tense Situation (Supervisors & Instructors):
1. Eye Contact: In tense situations, the eye contact may be more deliberate and intense. Supervisors and instructors may use sustained eye contact to demonstrate authority, seriousness, or to assert dominance.
2. Body Language: In tense situations, individuals may exhibit more rigid and formal body language. This could include standing upright, using gestures that are more controlled, and avoiding excessive movement or fidgeting.
3. Facial Expression: In tense situations, facial expressions may be more controlled and neutral, showing less emotion. Supervisors and instructors may adopt a serious or stern expression to assert their authority and maintain a professional demeanor.

Verbal Communication:

Relaxed Situation (Family Members & Friends):
1. Conversational Tone: In relaxed situations, the tone of verbal communication is typically casual and informal. People may speak in a friendly, familiar manner using slang or informal language.
2. Personal/Informative Content: In relaxed situations, individuals share personal stories, experiences, and information with family members and friends. The content of the conversation may focus on personal matters and may involve jokes or anecdotes.
3. Interruptions and Overlapping Speech: In relaxed situations, interruptions and overlapping speech may be more common. People may speak at the same time or interrupt each other in a lighthearted and playful manner, without causing tension.

Tense Situation (Supervisors & Instructors):
1. Professional Tone: In tense situations, the tone of verbal communication is typically formal and professional. Supervisors and instructors may use a more authoritative and direct tone to convey instructions or expectations.
2. Task-Oriented Content: In tense situations, the focus of communication is often on tasks, assignments, or specific requirements. Verbal communication may involve clear and concise instructions, feedback, or evaluation.
3. Limited Interruptions and Turn-Taking: In tense situations, interruptions are often discouraged, and turn-taking is more structured. Supervisors and instructors may expect individuals to wait their turn to speak and avoid overlapping speech.