Demonstrative Communication Paper

Introduction

What is demonstrative communication? Well, according to Oxford Dictionaries, the word demonstrative is defined as "unrestrained in showing feelings, especially those of affection" and "serving as conclusive evidence of something." (Oxford Dictionary, 2011) Demonstrative communication can show that the sender is listening and receiving information appropriately. Whether it is through distance, posture, facial expressions, or the environment, various types of demonstrative communication can convey various messages. However, some of these messages can be more effective than others and some can be taken in a positive and a negative way for both the receiver and the sender. It is important to understand that using just one type of demonstrative communication will not send or receive a message effectively. By using many types of demonstrative communication techniques, a message can be sent and received extremely effectively. Let us start with how demonstrative communication techniques can be effective as nonverbal forms of communication.

Effective Uses of Demonstrative Communication

Distance can be effective because it can allow one to show another that they are close enough to hear and understand what they are saying. Posture can be effective when used correctly. Sitting up straight and facing the receiver can show them that their sender is listening intently and really comprehending the information being given. Facial expressions, like posture, can be effective when used correctly. Winks, smiles, and other types of positive emotions can convey a positive message from the sender to the receiver. (App, McIntosh, Reed, & Hertenstein, 2011) The environment can be an effective for people to understand what type of communication is expected to take place within that area. (Kassing, Johnson, Kloeber & Wentzel, 2011) For example, in an office building, the furniture of the main offices might indicate an area where more personal communication occurs. However, the lobby or waiting area might be more organized in a way that indicates it is a place for a more relaxed and impersonal conversation.

Even though there are a number of effective ways to use demonstrative communication, it can also be used ineffectively.

Ineffective Uses of Demonstrative Communication

Distance can be ineffective in a number of ways. In some cultures, if a person is too close it is considered inappropriate. Posture can be ineffective if not used correctly. A person may be listening intently, but they might be slouched which would show another that they are not actively listening. Facial expressions can be ineffective if they are not accentuated. If the sender is trying to send a positive message, the facial expressions must be accentuated but not over accentuated. The key is to find the middle ground. The environment can be an ineffective form of demonstrative communication because it might be organized in a way where it is unclear what type of communication is expected. A break room might seem like an environment where impersonal communication is welcome, there might be a line. People discussing different work projects might not be tolerated in this type of environment.

Demonstrative communication can have a positive influence on the sender and the receiver when it is used appropriately. Let us continue on by reviewing the positive effects it has on the sender and the receiver.

Positive Influences for the Sender

Distance can be positive for the sender if their intent is to convey to the receiver that they are trying to be serious about the situation. Posture can be positive for the sender when used correctly. If the sender is trying to send a message that they respect what the other is saying and they are actively listening, good posture techniques will aid them in communicating that. Facial expression can be positive for the sender if they are trying to convey a message telling the receiver that they are agreeing or disagreeing with what they are saying. Facial expression can send so many messages if used appropriately. I think creating different environments can be positive for the sender in a number of ways. First of all, it gives the sender an opportunity to show what types of communication are accepted in different areas. For example, in a person's home, the more impersonal conversations might occur in the living room while the more personal conversations might occur in the home office.

As previously mentioned, demonstrative communication can have positive influences on the receiver as well.

Positive Influences for the Receiver

Distance can be positive for the receiver because the close distance from the sender shows them that the sender is intense about the exchange of information. Posture can be very positive for the receiver. Looking at another's posture can tell the receiver if they are taking the information being conveyed seriously. This type of demonstrative communication can speak volumes to a receiver who wants to know if their information is being passed on effectively. Facial expressions can be tricky for the receiver because unless the receiver really knows the sender well, facial expressions can be interpreted incorrectly. However, most facial expression is universal. A smile indicates a positive reception; a frown indicates a negative reception. However, there is so much more to facial