Chapter 7 Further Application Probes

. Nonverbal communication is similar throughout all cultures.

. There is relative consistency across cultures in our ability to recognize or decode several core facial nonverbal–emotional expressions.

. Laughter and smiling are signs of happiness across all cultures.

. A Brazilian man and woman, who are saying goodbye to each other, look into each other's eyes and exchange three kisses: a first kiss on the right cheek, a second on the left, and a third, again on the right cheek. This indicates that they are sexually attracted to each other.

. A young West Indian who lowers his or her eyes while being harshly spoken to by an adult in authority is showing disdain or disrespect toward that authority figure.

. In England, a "V for Victory" sign: When displayed with the back of the hand facing the observer has for many centuries symbolized love also.

. The "up yours" gesture, where the middle finger is jerked upward at someone with whom one is annoyed, has been in active use throughout many cultures and for over 2,000 years.

. The Chinese "shame-on-you" nonverbal sign is symbolized by repeated swiping of your index finger on your face.

. Tilting the head rhythmically from side to side means no in all cultures.

. A Mexican businessman invites you to discuss a new business project at 3:00 pm in his office. You arrive 10 minutes early, only to find out that he has not yet come back from lunch. It is 3:25 pm before he calmly walks into the office, without an apology for his lateness, and introduces you to his brother, who had joined him for lunch. The businessman was trying to tell you that he wasn't interested in doing business with you.

. Knocking on your desk repeatedly with your knuckles indicates displeasure or disapproval in Germany.

. In Hawaii, the "hurry up" sign is symbolized by shaking the folded palm with your thumb and last finger extended outward.

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