How do nonverbal behaviors affect sexual communication?
Four important components of nonverbal sexual communication include facial expression, interpersonal distance, touching, and sounds. All of these non-verbal behaviors differ by culture. It is important to realize that the message you think you are sending may mean something very different if your partner is from another culture. • Facial expression often communicates feelings and provides helpful cues to your partner’s experience. Eye contact is a very important part of inviting or discouraging sexual overtures for Many Americans. However, for some, looking directly into the other person’s eyes may be seen as a rude or aggressive behavior. • Interpersonal distance may suggest the other person’s attraction and/or withdrawal. Standing close to someone may be interpreted as an invitation to be more intimate or it may simply feel like you are crowding him or her. Folding your arms in front of you may be a message that you don’t want the person to get closer. • Touch can signal readiness to
