A research framework for second nonverbal code acquisition

Abstract

Nonverbal communication and language are two important components of human communication, yet the relationship between the two is severely understudied. One important question – When is learning another culture’s foreign language not enough to be an effective communicator? – has special applicability to teachers and students of foreign languages. Compared to the acquisition of second languages, very little is known about the acquisition of second nonverbal codes. The extent to which different forms of nonverbal communication are universal versus culturally-constructed and involuntary versus voluntary is discussed, followed by the proposal of a framework within which empirical research on second nonverbal code acquisition may be conducted. The framework segments the forms of nonverbal communication into four different quadrants, and the feasibility and value of second nonverbal code acquisition for each quadrant are discussed. Research questions suggested by each quadrant and the implications of possible findings are also discussed. By revealing several gaps in our understanding of nonverbal communication and its relationship with language and culture, the framework highlights the need for more empirical work on nonverbal communication and the acquisition of second nonverbal codes. A deeper understanding of the cross-cultural variation of nonverbal communication and second nonverbal code acquisition could reduce intercultural miscommunication, strengthen learners' communicative competence, and uncover new insights about the nature of human communication, especially regarding the intersection between language, culture, and cognition.