March 8-14 (question 2)

2). Although nonverbal messages are more universal than verbal messages, nonverbal do not always carry the same meanings in other cultures. Can you give examples of some of the nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries? If you have moved around within this country, have you ever encountered regional differences in nonverbal meaning?

There are many nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries. For example, “thumbs up” in the United States means “awesome” or “good job”. In other countries, like the middle east, might interpret a “thumbs up” gesture as obscene or disrespectful. Another example of a nonverbal display seen different in another country is the “v” sign or the “peace” gesture. I took an Intercultural communication class before and learned that this nonverbal gesture can be interpreted in other countries like South Africa as an insult. I haven’t moved much but I have heard that some nonverbal signs ca be misinterpreted as gang signs. There are different fraternities, sororities, and many other organizations that proudly display the organization or club with certain hand gestures. I also know that depending from what city your from, there are certain hand gestures that people show that lets everyone know where they are from. Some of it can be gang related and other gestures are just representing the city their from. There are tons of nonverbal gestures that one can display that can insult another when traveling to a different city or country. It is important to be mindful and be careful to not insult others.