The Importance of Body Language

I think body language is the most interesting paralanguage to look at because it is always on display and it is natural. According to an oft cited study, “body language comprises 55% [of total communication], whereas verbal content only provides 7%,” the other 38% consists of intonation, tone, sighs etc. (Raudsepp 2002). People often form lasting opinions of others based on observing them because, “almost every facet of our personality is evident from our appearance, posture and the way we move” (BBC 2004). These impressions are strong in our minds because we see body language as being very honest and not something someone would manipulate. It is easy to lie with words but, “bias leaks [out] easily in non-verbal behavior because evolution has programmed our feelings to show,” as anthropologist David Givens writes. Body language is vital to presenting yourself in the desired way especially when making a first impression, which is why it is the only paralanguage that is the focus of many self-help books, articles, and websites. Most of these writings deal with how to gain the upper hand in work or in attracting the opposite sex and many suggestions are given on how to exude confidence or express sexual interest and worthiness.