Optimal Nonverbal Communications Strategies Physicians Should Engage in to Promote Positive Clinical Outcomes

Abstract

This article discusses the importance of physician management of their nonverbal communication behavior during physician-patient interactions. This management is important because certain nonverbal behaviors are associated with clinical outcomes. The article outlines research findings involving various physicians' nonverbal behaviors, such as gaze orientation, head nodding, facial expressiveness, body orientation, proxemics, and paralinguistics. It also highlights the need to train physicians in nonverbal communications skills and provides a taxonomy of best practices or optimal nonverbal communications strategies that a physician should engage while interacting with patients.