Question

What are some non-verbal differences in cultures, different countries, etc that can be mis-interpreted in a negative way? Example, in England the "peace sign" or holding up two fingers to denote the number "2" is actually offensive there.

Answer 1

Nonverbal communication can be defined as a form of communication that is through sending and receiving wordless cues such as body language, distance, tone of voice and touch.

In different cultures, nonverbal communication is interpreted differently. Following are some of the examples :

• Eye contact :

In Asian cultures, avoiding eye contact is interpreted as a sign of respect. But the same gesture in North is considered as showing inequality among individuals.

• Touch:

In American culture , use of a firm handshake is considered appropriate to greet strangers or another business professional. But in France, it is common to kiss someone you on both cheeks while greeting even strangers. Touching children on the head is appropriate in North America but the same gesture is considered highly inappropriate in many Asian cultures.