How can our language and body language influence our interpersonal relationships?

The following videos make strong statements about the power of verbal and nonverbal messages.
Watch both videos fully:
How Language Shapes the Way We Think by Lera Boroditsky
Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are by Amy Cuddy
Boroditsky and Cuddy create compelling arguments about the impact of language and body language on our thoughts and feelings. This assignment asks you to think about how these insights can impact future interpersonal relationships.
This is a multi-stepped assignment:
Using the Lesson 4 Group Project Partner Request discussion board forum, you should have created a group of 3-4 students from this class. If you are not placed in a group by Monday of this week, please check in with your professor.
Create an original post of at least 350-400 words that explores the following questions:
What information did you find most compelling from each speaker?
Using specific examples, what information from the text supports or disputes each speaker’s claims?
How can our language and body language influence our interpersonal relationships?
How can the conclusions of each speaker be used to guide future interpersonal relationships?
Be sure to support your post with course resources.
Answer & Explanation
VerifiedSolved by verified expert
Language and body language can have a significant impact on our interpersonal relationships. Here are some ways in which they can influence our relationships:

Communication: Our language is the primary tool we use to communicate with others. The words we use and the way we use them can either help or hinder our communication with others. Clear and concise language can help us convey our thoughts and feelings effectively, while ambiguous or aggressive language can create misunderstandings and conflicts.

Emotional expression: Our body language can often convey our emotions more effectively than our words. For e

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Step-by-step explanation
xample, crossing our arms or avoiding eye contact can signal defensiveness or discomfort, while a warm smile or open body posture can convey friendliness and openness.

Perception: Our language and body language can shape how others perceive us. Using confident language and maintaining strong eye contact can make us appear more self-assured and competent, while using tentative language or avoiding eye contact can make us appear uncertain or untrustworthy.

Connection: Using language and body language that aligns with the cultural norms of those around us can help us build connections and rapport with others. For example, using appropriate greetings and gestures in different cultures can help us establish trust and build relationships.

Conflict resolution: Our language and body language can also play a crucial role in resolving conflicts. Using non-confrontational language and adopting a calm and neutral body posture can help defuse tense situations and lead to more productive conversations.

Overall, our language and body language can significantly impact our interpersonal relationships. It is essential to pay attention to both our verbal and nonverbal communication to build healthy and positive relationships with others.

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