ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on physical appearance and adornment as a nonverbal code. First impressions are often formed on the basic of this code, with people sometimes stereotyped because of their appearance. This chapter discusses several such stereotypes, including those related to a person’s level of attractiveness; body type; coloring; and use of adornments such as tattoos, piercings, and makeup. Interpersonal interaction can alter some of these perceptions, showing that adornment cues both affect and are affected by communication. The chapter also discusses what constitutes physical attractiveness, how physical attractiveness functions in interpersonal and professional contexts, and some of the disadvantages associated with being especially attractive.
