Non-verbal communication can be: (a) Unintentional (c) None of these (b) Unspoken
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: (a) Unintentional
Explanation
Non-verbal communication refers to the transmission of messages or information without the use of spoken or written words. This includes facial expressions, body language, gestures, posture, eye contact, tone of voice, and even physical distance between communicators. While non-verbal communication can be intentional, it is often unintentional, which makes option (a) Unintentional the correct answer.
Unintentional non-verbal communication occurs when we convey messages without realizing it. For example, someone may cross their arms during a conversation, which can unintentionally signal defensiveness or discomfort, even if that was not their intended message. Similarly, nervous habits like tapping a foot or avoiding eye contact can communicate anxiety or lack of interest without the speaker meaning to do so.
This kind of communication is particularly important in interpersonal interactions because it often reveals a person’s true feelings, attitudes, or state of mind. Unlike verbal language, which can be controlled and edited, non-verbal cues tend to be more spontaneous and harder to fake. This is why people often say, “Actions speak louder than words.”
Option (b) Unspoken is partially correct but misleading. While it is true that non-verbal communication is unspoken, the word “unspoken” simply describes the absence of speech. It doesn’t capture the key feature that non-verbal cues can be unconscious or automatic, which is the essence of unintentional communication.
Option (c) None of these is incorrect because “unintentional” is a valid and accurate descriptor of non-verbal communication.
In summary, non-verbal communication is often unintentional because individuals may express emotions, attitudes, or reactions through their body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal means without being aware of it. This makes it a powerful and revealing form of communication in both personal and professional contexts.
