Nonverbal behavior and nonverbal communication (original) (raw)

This paper articulates the fundamental assumptions behind different approaches to studying nonverbal behaviors as a form of communication. It emphasizes a critical distinction between nonverbal behaviors that can be classified as communicative and those that cannot. The authors aim to redefine certain issues in the study of nonverbal communication, establish clear definitions and criteria for empirical research, and demonstrate how these can be applied to analyze hand and arm movements as communicative gestures. The findings suggest a need for systematic investigations into nonverbal communication to enhance understanding of its role and meanings.