Communication skills and styles

 Communication is not always straightforward. Everyone, at some time or another, makes assumptions based on messages communicated through body language and facial expressions.

The TV show I recorded this week was "How I Met Your Mother"

With the sound off:

•           What do you think the characters’ relationships are based on the ways in which they are communicating?

All the characters are friends. They seem angry and hostile at times. Based upon what I observed it was evident that they all had a great relationship but at times could not agree with each other.

•           What are they feeling and expressing based on the nonverbal behavior you are observing?

They seem angry and upset based on facial expressions and body language.

With the sound on

What assumptions did you make about the characters and plot based on the ways in which you interpreted the communication you observed?

I assumed this was a very sarcastic and bitter show. I did re-watch the show with the volume and found it to be entertaining and funny so I definitely got the wrong impression.

•           Would your assumptions have been more correct if you had been watching a show you know well?

I definitely believe my assumptions would have been spot on had I been watching a show I knew well such as, "Two and a Half Men." Our body language and our nonverbal communication can share messages that we might not want to be shared. I found this exercise helpful as I was observing body language. If we pay close attention we can tell more about a person than we realize just by watching their actions and facial expressions. We can speak volumes without saying a word.