ABSTRACT
Effective interpretation requires that you take into account the total communication context so that you are better able to understand the meaning of what is said. Skilled listeners let their partners know that they want to make a genuine connection. Interpreting messages requires empathy. Your ability to empathize or to see a situation from the other person’s perspective is critical.
This chapter focuses on nonverbal communication—facial expression, body posture, eye behavior, silence, and vocal cues—that increase sensitivity to the emotional dimensions of communication. People who are socially sensitive have a high EQ or emotional quotient. Verbal and nonverbal behaviors interrelate in providing information regarding your partner’s attitudes, feelings, and ideas. A specific cluster of nonverbal behaviors are associated with perceptions of warmth and openness. Empathic listening can be improved by increasing your social sensitivity, self-awareness, and self-monitoring skills.
The ways in which accurate interpretation is influenced by both individual differences and cultural orientation is also discussed. The chapter also explores the impact of social media and other distance technologies on communicating emotions and interpreting messages. The dimensions required for interpreting messages and communicating empathy are greatly reduced in mediated communication.
