Body language is a form of nonverbal communication that involves physical behaviors, expressions, and mannerisms used to convey information without words. It includes facial expressions, eye gaze, gestures, posture, and body movements, which together make up a significant part of daily communication- potentially up to 80% of all communication
. This type of communication often happens instinctively and unconsciously, revealing true feelings and intentions that may not be expressed verbally. For example, a smile can indicate happiness or approval, while crossed arms might suggest defensiveness or unwillingness to listen
. Body language plays a crucial role in understanding others and ourselves, as it helps interpret emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, and fear. It also affects how people perceive honesty and trustworthiness, especially when verbal and nonverbal messages conflict
. Common types of body language include:
- Aggressive: Firm handshake, invading personal space, finger-pointing.
- Defensive: Crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, hunched shoulders.
- Nervous: Fidgeting, biting nails, weak handshake.
- Engaged: Good eye contact, confident stance, nodding, smiling
Because body language varies across cultures and contexts, interpreting it accurately requires understanding these differences
. In summary, body language is the nonverbal signals we use to communicate emotions, attitudes, and intentions through physical behavior, playing a vital role in interpersonal communication
