Non-Verbal Behavior theory

Definition: The communication without words. The face is used a great deal. Hand signals, shrugs, head movements, etc. also are used.  Application: Non verbal behavior is very important in the social work profession, specifically with interpersonal practice. In the community, it is important to be able to read non verbal clues because you may be working with people with different cultures and languages.  Adaptation: Non verbal behavior is used in all walks of life from infants to the elderly. Being able to understand them is more vital than learning to do so because many times when we do non verbal clues it is done subconsciously. Source: Burgoon, J.K. Buller, D.B. and Woodall, W.G. (1996) Nonverbal Communication, New York: McGraw-Hill