Abstract

This thesis analyzes the differences of nonverbal communication between Chinese and Westerners. At the beginning, it introduces the features, functions and types of nonverbal communication. Then the specific performances of nonverbal communication and reasons causing the differences between Chinese and Westerners are analyzed. At last, three strategies to improve the competence in communicating with those who have different cultural backgrounds in nonverbal communication are proposed.  

Key words: Chinese, Westerners, nonverbal communication, differences, reasons, strategies

CONTENTS

中文摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction1

2. Aspects of Nonverbal Communication.2

  2.1 The features of nonverbal communication2 

  2.2 The functions of nonverbal communication2 

2.3 The types of nonverbal communication.4

3. The Differences of Nonverbal Communication between Chinese and Westerners4 

  3.1 Kinesics .4

  3.2 Paralanguage..7 

3.3 Objective language.8

3.4 Environmental language ...8

4. Reasons for the Differences between Chinese and Westerners. 11 

  4.1 Attitudes to crowd 11

  4.2 Concept of domain .11 

  4.3 Individualism-collectivism .12

  4.4 Power distance.12

  4.5 Uncertainty avoidance .12

  4.6 Masculinity and femininity13

5. The Strategies of Nonverbal Communication between Chinese and Westerners..13

  5.1 Strengthening awareness of differences .13

  5.2 Accumulating acknowledge of cultural background 13

  5.3 Applying nonverbal communication properly.13

6. Conclusion ...14

Works Cited .15