Non-Verbal Communication

The see television episode I chose to watch is “Cristela” which airs on ABC.  I have never watched this show previous to viewing for this assignment.  The scene I watched from this show without sound was the interaction between co-workers because it was set in an office.  I figured they were colleagues as their desks were facing each other.  At one point during the seen the characters got up from their chairs to commence in a face-to-face hand gestures, body movements and facials expression show down that signified competition. 

The assumptions I made about the characters from the office scene was correct they are co-workers who are employed by a law firm as interns vying to be second chair on a discrimination case.  I think my assumptions would have been correct even if I was watching a show that I regularly watch. 

 I found it interesting that it is possible to identify what form of communication is taking place just by observing gestures, hand movements and facial expression of the characters.  Movements in the face can tell you a lot about what a person is feeling and thinking.  Raised eyebrows, deep stares, and even blinking signify non-verbal emotions that we all experience.  I have for years use a polka face to keep others from reading my emotion from my facial expressions.  Now that I am older I think I am easier to read to my dismay. 

Reference:

"Latino 101." Cristela. ABC. WRIC, Richmond, 27 Mar. 2015. Television.

 

Competent Communicator

The person that I feel exemplifies competent communication is Tracy Walters; she is our centers Program Director she hold a Master degree in Special Education.  I have been observing her communication skills for some time.  Tracy demonstrates the ability to move from the context of a discussion with a staff member about a concern with a child; to talking with a parent who may have a question about using the center on the weekend.  I think Tracy is the epitome of how ethics in conversation should play out.   

Tracy listens effectively allowing a person to complete their thoughts, her body language is always neutral; I have notice she will turn her body in a manner that says you are important and I am interested in what you are saying to me.  When she responds it is from an intellectual stand point; she demonstrates a vast amount of knowledge, wisdom and experience.  I listen to a conversation she had with one relatively new staff member who mention she has restless leg syndrome and she likes when her dog sleeps across her legs. Tracy suggested she try using a weighted blanket. If I could model my communication behaviors after anyone it would be Tracy.  I now understand why the staff often go to her for consultation; she is amazing!