Individuals make different attributions based on their interpretation of both verbal behavior and nonverbal behavior since the kinds of information received from each communication channel differ. Are individuals equally able to control each channel? Is each kind of information equally informative and equally trust worthy? Why or whynot?

When analyzing the use of nonverbal behavior and verbal behaviors, individuals select one of the two, the other of the two, or both as methods of communication deemed necessary based on the situation. In order to communicate, individuals do not always have to verbally communicate. Non-verbal behaviors are also used as a means of communication. Researchers found that during courtship, non-verbal gestures, although ambiguous in nature, may assist in the preservation of a relationship (Moore, 2010). Such nonverbal gestures may play a key role in human courtship (Moore, 2010). Based on a person's verbal and nonverbal gesture or behavior, one can attribute the communication to the creation and maintenance or demise of a relationship.

Educators must also have an awareness of their individual and personal communication skills from verbal and nonverbal behaviors. If not careful, students may misinterpret a teacher's body language and in turn believe something negative about their teacher that is not true. Individuals are able to control both verbal and nonverbal behaviors if told that it is an area of focus. Body language and other nonverbal behaviors are not always conscious actions and may just be the norm for someone. Each can be telling (informative) and neither can be 100% trustworthy. People can and will lie verbally. People may try to hide how they really feel through nonverbal communication.

References

Moore, M. M. (2010). Human nonverbal courtship behavior-A brief historical review. Journal of Sex Research, 47(2), 171-180. doi:10.1080/00224490903402520