Non-verbal communication sends messages that aren't ever said. When you are having a conversation there are many parts of it that will trigger reactions, even if they aren't directly talked about. For example, if someone is rolling there eyes or not making eye contact, you would think there was a lack of interest. Whether they be gestures or actions, a lot can be perceived from them. Non-verbal communication is used to express attitudes and emotions (168). Judgments and impressions are given off by this form of communication. You may think certain things and recieve different messages about someone because of their body language, the way they are dressed, or how loud they talk.
Non-verbal communication is multidimensional (170). It often occurs along with conversation and by itself. There are five major functions of non-verbal communication that can be found on pages 170-171 in the book. Repeating is a function used to reinforce your point. For example you may shake your head while saying no, or point when giving directions. These actions have the same meaning if they were done alone, but reinforce what is being said. .
Complementing is similar to repeating, but differs in it adds more information to messages. It emphasizes or accents the verbal message that is being given. Facial expressions or physical contact along with the words are a good example of this function. Next is substituting. This is also similar to the first two, but these gestures or actions are done to substitute the words that would mean the same thing, and do not involve actual speech. Giving someone "the finger" would be substituting. .
Regulating is used to manage communication. This non-verbal behavior helps to control or regulate the situation, like pauses in conversation to allow someone else to respond. The last function is contradicting. This is when your non-verbal behavior is different from your verbal message.