The five functions of nonverbal communication
The five functions of nonverbal communication include forming and managing impressions, forming and defining relationships, structuring conversation and social interaction, influencing and deceiving, expressing emotions. In the video excerpt, these functions are portrayed as follows:
- Forming and managing impressions. While at the picnic, Carl uses a body gesture by pointing to an image of a child up in the sky to emphasize his need to become a father (“Favorite Pixar’s Up Scene Ever”).
- Forming and defining relationships. Carl and Ellie use touch communication to reassure each other of their affection by intimately touching each other instead of speaking while reading their books.
- Influencing and deceiving. Carl’s family applaud his union with Ellie when they would prefer to be shouting about their displeasure with the wedding.
- Expressing emotions. After Carl and Ellie lose their child, Ellie communicates via paralanguage. She becomes withdrawn and spends a lot of time in silence (“Favorite Pixar’s Up Scene Ever”).
- Structuring conversation and social interaction. When out on picnic or vacation, Carl and Ellie use artifactual communication channel. Ellie dresses like a tourist with a hat and a camera while Carl carries around balloons to be able to relate with children they meet in the parks socially.
