The Unspoken Dialogue
First published 1978
A classic book by one of the top nonverbal scholars in the
field Professor Judee Burgoon. The Unspoken Dialogue offers a comprehensive
look at nonverbal communication. Revised editions feature a thorough update of
the research, with expanded coverage of health communication and cultural
differences/similarities in nonverbal communication. The communication theories
with which Burgoon is most notably linked are: interpersonal adaptation theory
(which focuses on how pairs of communicators coordinate their communication),
expectancy violations theory (building upon Hall's work on proxemics and
personal space, the theory shows that unexpected behaviour causes arousal and
uncertainty in people, and people then look to explain the violation in order
to better predict another's behaviour) and interpersonal deception theory (when
liars attempt to manipulate messages, which may cause them apprehension about
being detected). Burgoon was aware of the importance of nonverbal messages and
discussed how expressing emotions can affect our popularity, relationships, and
physical and mental health. She linked eye contact with perceived competence,
and investigated gaze’s effect on attraction, liking and credibility.