The Use Of Words And Through Nonverbal Communication

Social workers must strive “for a full understanding of the complex interactions between the client and all levels of the social and physical system as well as meaning that the client assigns to each of these interactions” (Andreae, 1996, p. 605).

To me interpersonal communication describes the exchange of verbal and nonverbal messages between two different people. Joseph DeVito states that “interpersonal communication is inevitable, irreversible, and unrepeatable” due to these things effective communication is a necessary skill for us to function in our day to day lives (p. 20). Therefore, I have created a theory for interpersonal communication that goes as follows; To experience effective communication you must understand: your culture, the other person’s culture, and how to listen effectively. By knowing these three things you can consistently avoid misunderstandings and promote understanding in your interpersonal and intercultural relationships.

Social work professions need to understand the importance of how individuals interact both with other people and their environment, to have an understanding how individuals are affected by these interactions (Rogers, p. 2). According to Rogers (2016), “Social workers are knowledgeable about human behavior across the life course; the range of social systems in which people live; and the ways social systems promote or deter people in maintaining or achieving health and well-being. Social workers apply theories and knowledge from the liberal arts to understand biological, social, cultural, psychological, and spiritual development (p. 2). Their work with clients begins with assessments to evaluations of intervention and is based in and supports of the core value system of the profession.

Nonverbal communication or body language makes up 55% of effective communication. This plays the biggest part in communication, and it shows the client or colleague more information than words alone ever could. Nonverbal communication includes facial expressions, body movement and gestures, head movements, eye contact, posture, and the use of distances and space. Understanding and using nonverbal communication can enhance the connection between you and others, navigate challenging situations and well as expressing interest in the conversation. this can also established effective rapport between you and the client or colleague.

Non-verbal communication consists mainly of the things people do with their body language. There are times where words are expressed and non-verbal communication could help emphasize the message. A few examples of nonverbal communication are hand gestures eye contact, facial expressions as well as tone and volume. I was given this assignment to observe a situation and take note of the nonverbal communication that occurred. I also had to observe whether the non-verbals were able to execute the message and if the behavior was acceptable.

-clear speech-in order to help people to understand you are saying, speak clearly, don't cover your mouth with your hands or turn away from the person.

A social worker can transfer attitudes to a service user, for example, they may be able to hold hope in a seemingly hopeless situation, alternatively they may communicate worthlessness to the service user causing them to capitulate and not expect any progress in their time of need. Therefore, it is important to communicate well and be aware that more than simply the words used communicate held opinions; body language and tone often tell the listener more than words do (Hargie and Dickson, 2004). Furthermore, actions such as keeping appointments and offering a drink in a meeting may also communicate that the service user is valued, this – along with many others – is a reason for me to develop strong organisational skills.

However, “it is the responsibility of the social worker to enter into the case file the gist, as some type of documentation is needed to verify services. In addition, a verbal contract does not lock a client into specific time frames and goals, as there tends to be more flexibility regarding the nature of the work together” (Cummins et al., 2012, p.229). However, there could be barriers that could impede client progress such as the social worker is working harder than the client, the client is mandated to see a social worker, and clients may be manipulative. It is important for the social worker to be supportive and understanding with clients and allow them the choice if they want to continue with services or not. However, for clients that do not participate they need to understand the consequences if they are court-ordered to participate and for clients that are manipulative a social worker needs to beware of a client’s nonverbal facial expressions and pauses that can be an indication of

Letting the client explain in their own words what their concerns or goals are allows for the client to be involved with their services. It also allows for the client to tell the Social Worker how they view their problems and where they want to start.

In both my persuasive and eliciting videos I used an array of verbal and non-verbal communication techniques. For example, in both videos I maintained good eye contact with my client throughout, demonstrating the use of non-verbal communication. I ensured to keep eye contact with my client to reassure her I was listening and paying attention whilst staying focused and interested which could enable my patient to elaborate and express their feelings, as one of the most important aspects of nursing is establishing a good relationship between a nurse and their patient (Bach and Grant 2009) in which Baston et al. (2009) elaborates on by claiming that an inability to maintain eye contact leads to barriers within communication. However making eye contact for long periods of time can be perceived as rude in some cultures (RCN 2015). Therefore, although I thought I was demonstrating consideration, I could have potentially been offending a service user. I have also acknowledged in both videos that I can be repetitive in agreeing or confirming what my patient has said through

Social workers have many different practices and approaches to draw on for work with individuals, families, communities and society as a whole. These approaches and techniques can be varied depending on the distinctive

Your explanation of Geraldine’s behavior after what she witnessed is on target. I agree with you that she is in a very fragile state of mind. The social worker assigned to her must be aware of how she is going to approach Geraldine. Body language is another type of communication that Social workers must be in tuned with the client. Usually, when a person is about to shut down their body language is the first clue that you are losing their attention, and they are no longer listening to you speak. Listening carefully to her reactions of what she is communicating to the social worker.

Nonverbal communication is behaviors and characteristics that convey meaning with out the use of words. Sometimes accompanying verbal messages, to clarify or reinforce them. (Floyd, Communicating Nonverbally, 2013) It is said to be true that nonverbal communication sometimes gives more information that verbal communication. People’s facial expressions, gestures, and personal appearance are all forms of nonverbal communication and it relies on our sense of vision. For instance, when my sorority and I get together for a meeting and the president of our chapter stands up in front of everyone to share information, it is important that we let her know that we are interested by nodding our head in agreement, smiling at her, clapping our hands, and keeping eye contact with her so she knows our focus is on her. For our chapter it is important to reassure our president that we are listening and focused on what she has to say by using nonverbal behaviors. Without nonverbal communication, it would be hard to tell when someone is interested or not in a conversation. Nonverbal communication helps us maintain

The two key elements in successful practice are the social workers ability to guide clients through the phases of the change process and assist clients in making decisions that will result in enhancement of their social functioning or the improvement of a social condition (Bradford W. Sheafor, 2008, p. 52). Social workers select and use specific techniques that have been individualized to the needs and situation of the client or client group being served, and the resources that are applied to help resolve the client’s problem or concern (Bradford W. Sheafor, 2008, p. 51).

One thing we all have in common is that we must all communicate in one form or another. Everyone communicates even if they know it or not. Both verbal and nonverbal communication is used during conversations. Using both forms helps convey and support the message you are trying to send.