Demonstrative Communication
Ronnie Porche
BCOM/275 Version 1
January 26, 2012
Christopher Nikkel

Demonstrative Communication
Demonstrative communication is the method of sending and receiving messages through the process of non-verbal and unwritten communication. While verbal communication is more precise than non-verbal cues, non-verbal communication can also convey a message with surprising clarity. Some examples of non-verbal communication include “vocal sounds that are not words such as grunts, sighs and whimpers” (Nonverbal Communication, 2012, para.1), facial expressions and gestures, body language, dress, tone of voice, handshakes, eye contact, etc. Demonstrative communication can be effective or ineffective, positive or negative, for the sender and the receiver.
There are many reasons why we use demonstrative communication but the main reason is to enhance our verbal communications. For example, when a pastor stands before the congregation to share the word, the tone of voice used may indicate the seriousness of the point being expressed. The pastor may shout, stomp around or jump up and down. At the same time, the congregation may clap their hands, cry, faint, laugh, nod their heads or even take off running. By evaluating the non-verbal signals of the congregation, a pastor can gauge the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of the deliverance of the word. All of these actions signify that demonstrative communication can definitely enhance verbal communications.
Another example of when demonstrative communication is used to enhance verbal communications is during the exchange of information. When relaying a message to a receiver, eye contact is important as it indicates respect and alerts us that the receiver is listening attentively to the message that is being relayed. On the other hand, if direct eye contact is not established, it can be construed