Nonverbal communication styles differ across cultures. Some cultures are considered "high context" where communication is indirect, orderly, and disagreements are seen as threatening. Countries like Japan and Arab nations exemplify this. Other cultures are "low context" where communication is direct, value privacy, and disagreements are not personal. The United States and Germany demonstrate low context styles. Nonverbal cues have different meanings in different cultures so there is no superior style; they simply convey cultural differences.

1. 7 Cultural Differences in
Nonverbal Communication

2. “The most important thing in
communication is hearing what isn’t
said.”
-Peter F. Drucker

3. What is Nonverbal Communication?

4. Functions
• To accent the meaning of verbal messages (such
as pointing while stating directions)
• To complement or contradict verbal messages
(such as indicating sarcasm using verbal tone)
• To regulate interactions with others (such as using
nonverbal cues to indicate when people should and
should not speak)
• To substitute for verbal messages (such as
nodding instead of saying “yes”)

5. Meanings of nonverbal cues are
not, in fact, universal.

7. No culture is “better” than
another; communication styles
simply convey differences, rather
than superiority.

8. High Context
•Communication tends to be indirect, harmoniously
structured and understated.
•In conversation, people are expected to speak
one after another in an orderly, linear fashion.
•Disagreements are personally threatening.

9. High Context
•Physical space is considered more communal.
•Verbal messages are indirect.
•Accuracy is valued.
•Some countries considered “high context” include
Japan, Greece and various Arab nations.

10. Low Context
•Communication tends to be linear, dramatic,
precise and open.
•Because words are so highly valued, they
are used almost constantly.
•Disagreements are depersonalized.

11. Low Context
•Privacy and personal space are highly
valued.
•Verbal messages are explicit and direct.
•Speed is valued.
Some countries considered “low context” include the
United States, Germany and various Scandinavian
countries.

12. Group Activity

13. TO GOD BE ALL THE
GLORY