CST 110 Introduction To Communication Test #1

Benjamin Whorf, a linguist and anthropologist, proposed the theory of linguistic relativity, also known as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis. According to this theory, the language we use shapes our thoughts and perceptions of the world. Whorf argued that different languages have different structures and vocabulary, which influence how speakers perceive and interpret reality. Therefore, the statement "our words determine the reality that we are able to see" aligns with Whorf's belief and is considered true.

Prejudiced language is characterized by the use of derogatory or discriminatory terms towards a particular group of people based on their race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. This type of language conveys a negative bias as it promotes stereotypes, reinforces prejudices, and can lead to discrimination and inequality. By using prejudiced language, individuals contribute to a harmful and divisive environment, perpetuating discrimination and hindering social progress. Therefore, the statement "Prejudiced language communicates a negative bias" is true.

Visual dominance refers to the tendency of individuals to rely more on visual cues and information while speaking compared to when they are listening. This answer states that visual dominance is calculated by comparing the percentages of looking while speaking with the percentages of looking while listening. This implies that the measure of visual dominance is determined by quantifying the amount of visual attention individuals give while speaking versus listening. Therefore, the answer is true.

Culture plays a significant role in shaping an individual's response style. It influences whether someone chooses to be indirect, prioritizing the preservation of the other person's dignity in public, or whether they opt for a more direct and upfront approach. This suggests that the statement "Culture determines a person's style of response - whether to be indirect and be concerned about the other person's saving face in public or be up front and direct" is true.

Intensifying an emotion to meet the expectations of the person we are communicating with can be a motivation because we often want to be perceived in a certain way or to fulfill social norms. By intensifying our emotions, we may be trying to convey a stronger reaction or show empathy towards the other person's emotions, which can enhance the effectiveness of communication and create a stronger connection.

Nonverbal communication can indeed be used to contradict or negate a verbal message. For example, if someone says they are happy but their facial expression and body language indicate sadness, the nonverbal cues contradict the verbal message. Nonverbal cues such as tone of voice, facial expressions, gestures, and body language often provide additional information or reveal the true feelings and intentions behind a verbal message. Therefore, it is correct to say that one function of nonverbal communication is to negate a verbal message.

In many cultures, the person who initiates touch is often seen as more dominant or socially superior. This behavior is rooted in power dynamics and the belief that the person who takes the initiative is in control of the interaction. By initiating touch, they assert their authority and demonstrate their higher status. However, it is important to note that this may not be true in all situations or cultures, as social norms and expectations vary across different societies.

Eye movements can be a powerful form of nonverbal communication. A speaker can use their eye movements to convey various messages, such as indicating interest, agreement, or disagreement. However, these messages can sometimes be confusing or misinterpreted by the listener. For example, a speaker may unintentionally make eye contact with someone while speaking, leading the listener to believe that the speaker is specifically addressing them when they may not be. Therefore, it is true that a speaker can use their eye movements in ways that confuse a listener.

This statement suggests that symbols and their representations are not connected or influenced by each other. In other words, the meaning or significance of a symbol is not determined by its representation or vice versa. This implies that symbols can be interpreted differently by different individuals or cultures, and their representations can vary without altering their inherent meaning. Therefore, the statement is true as it highlights the independence between symbols and what they represent.

Men have been found to have higher rates of ulcers compared to women. This could be attributed to the fact that men are often socialized to suppress their emotions and avoid displaying vulnerability. Stress is a known factor that contributes to the development of ulcers, and by not expressing their emotions, men may be more prone to experiencing chronic stress, which can increase the risk of ulcers. Therefore, it is plausible to suggest that men's tendency to avoid displaying emotions could be a contributing factor to their higher rates of ulcers.

The statement suggests that Margo chastised her brother for using negative words, implying that she believes the words we use shape our thoughts and perceptions. This aligns with the concept of linguistic determinism, which posits that language influences and determines our thinking patterns. Therefore, the answer "True" is correct as it confirms that Margo is indeed practicing linguistic determinism by reprimanding her brother for using negative words.

Some teachers are using purple rather than red when grading papers. This statement is true because some teachers have started using purple ink instead of the traditional red ink when grading papers. This change may be due to personal preference or to make the grading process more visually appealing and less intimidating for students.

Jargon refers to specialized terminology or language used within a specific profession or field. It is considered appropriate when the intended audience is familiar with the jargon being used. This means that if the receiver has knowledge and understanding of the jargon, it can be used effectively to enhance communication and convey information more efficiently. Therefore, the statement "Jargon is appropriate if the receiver is familiar with it" is true.

Civil inattention refers to the social norm of avoiding sustained eye contact with strangers in public spaces. This behavior is considered polite and respectful as it allows individuals to maintain their privacy and personal space. On the other hand, staring at someone for a prolonged period is generally seen as impolite and may make the person being stared at uncomfortable. Therefore, the given statement is true as it correctly states that staring is usually considered impolite.

Denotation refers to the dictionary meaning of a word or a term. It is the literal or explicit meaning of a word, devoid of any personal or subjective interpretations. Denotation focuses on the objective definition of a word, as provided by a standard dictionary, and is often used to ensure clear and precise communication. It helps to establish a common understanding of a word's meaning among different individuals or within a specific context.

Ethnic mixing refers to the blending of different ethnicities or races in society. In the context of advertising, it means featuring individuals from diverse backgrounds in promotional material. This statement suggests that the concept of attractiveness in advertising is evolving and becoming more inclusive. By showcasing people from different ethnicities, the definition of attractiveness becomes more varied and representative of the multicultural world we live in. This shift in advertising reflects a growing acceptance and appreciation for diversity, ultimately changing the traditional standards of beauty.

Nonverbal communication refers to all forms of human responses that are not expressed in words. This includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, tone of voice, and other nonverbal cues. Paralanguage specifically refers to nonverbal vocal cues, such as tone, pitch, and volume. Kinesics focuses on body movements and gestures, while proxemics is the study of how people use and perceive space in communication. Therefore, the correct answer is nonverbal communication as it encompasses all of these forms of human responses not expressed in words.

Bandler and Grinder theorize that people look in one direction when they try to remember something and in a different direction when they try to invent something. This suggests that eye gaze can provide insight into a person's cognitive processes and whether they are recalling information or generating new ideas.

Labeling refers to the process of attaching a label or tag to a product or package, providing information about its contents, ingredients, usage, etc. Branding, on the other hand, refers to the practice of creating a unique name, design, symbol, or image that identifies and differentiates a product or company from others in the market. It involves establishing a strong and recognizable brand identity that resonates with consumers and helps build loyalty and trust. Therefore, branding is the correct term for the process of creating and establishing a brand in the market.

The most accurate statement about "powertalkers" is that they make definite statements. This means that they speak with confidence and assertiveness, expressing their opinions or ideas clearly and without hesitation. Unlike the other options, which suggest the use of qualifiers or uncertainties in speech, this answer highlights the characteristic of powertalkers to be direct and decisive in their communication style.

The connotative meaning of a word refers to the personal and subjective meaning that an individual attaches to it. It goes beyond the dictionary definition and includes the emotions, feelings, and associations that a person has with the word. This personal interpretation can vary from person to person, as individuals may have different experiences and perspectives that shape their understanding of a word.

The face is the main channel for communicating emotions because it is the most expressive part of the body. Facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning, can convey a wide range of emotions including happiness, sadness, anger, or surprise. People often rely on facial cues to understand and interpret the emotions of others, making it a crucial nonverbal mode of communication.

The "triangle of meaning" refers to a model developed by Ogden and Richards. This model illustrates the relationship between a word, the concept it represents, and the actual object or experience it refers to. Ogden and Richards proposed that meaning is created through the interaction of these three elements. This theory has been influential in the field of semantics and language analysis. Therefore, the correct answer is Ogden and Richards.

According to Robert Levine, individuals who control others' time have power. This implies that those who have the ability to dictate and manage how others spend their time hold a position of authority and influence. This power can be leveraged to manipulate or direct the actions and behaviors of others, granting them control and dominance in various situations.

A "tag question" is a statement that is turned into a question by adding a tag at the end, such as "isn't it?" or "don't you?". The purpose of a tag question is to seek confirmation for the speaker's perceptions or beliefs. It is used to check if the listener agrees or disagrees with the statement made by the speaker. By using a tag question, the speaker is inviting the listener to confirm or validate their perception of a situation or statement. This helps in maintaining a conversational flow and encourages the listener to actively participate in the conversation.

According to Deborah Tannen, women speak a language of both connection and intimacy. This means that women prioritize building and maintaining relationships through communication. They focus on creating connections with others and fostering emotional closeness. Women tend to use language as a tool to establish and strengthen their relationships, emphasizing empathy, support, and understanding. This language style allows women to establish and maintain intimate connections with others, making both connection and intimacy integral aspects of their communication style.

Kinesics refers to the study of body language, which includes the movements, gestures, and facial expressions that convey nonverbal communication. It involves interpreting the messages conveyed through body movements and postures. Body language plays a significant role in communication as it can express emotions, attitudes, and intentions. It is an essential aspect of interpersonal communication and can greatly influence how messages are understood and interpreted by others.

Paralanguage refers to the non-verbal elements of communication, such as pitch, tone, volume, and rhythm of speech. It includes the highness or lowness of the voice, which is known as pitch. Proxemics refers to the study of personal space and how individuals use and perceive it. Kinesics refers to body language and gestures. Physique refers to the physical characteristics and appearance of a person. Therefore, the correct answer is paralanguage as it encompasses the concept of pitch in communication.

The meaning of a word or phrase can have both denotative and connotative aspects. Denotative meaning refers to the literal or dictionary definition, while connotative meaning refers to the emotional or cultural associations attached to the word. Additionally, the meaning of a word can be influenced by time and place, as language evolves and words can have different interpretations in different contexts. Furthermore, meaning can also be influenced by gender and culture, as these factors can shape the way individuals perceive and interpret language. Therefore, all of the given options are correct explanations for the meaning of a word.

The term "Powertalkers" can be described in multiple ways: rarely hesitating, credible and influential, and speaking directly and to the point. Therefore, the correct answer is "by all of these."

Disclaimers are statements that typically serve to limit or reduce the significance or validity of a statement. By their nature, disclaimers indicate that the statement may not be entirely accurate or reliable, which diminishes its importance. Therefore, the correct answer is true, as disclaimers indeed diminish a statement's importance.

Paralanguage refers to the nonverbal elements of communication, such as tone, pitch, rate, volume, and pauses. These elements convey meaning and emotion in addition to the words being spoken. Therefore, "words" are not included in paralanguage, as they are part of verbal communication rather than nonverbal communication.

The correct answer is asking people for additional information. Probing is a technique used to gather more details or clarify unclear information. By asking for additional information, we can gain a deeper understanding of the topic or situation at hand. This allows us to gather more comprehensive information and make more informed decisions.

Silk holds great significance in Chinese culture as evident from the fact that there are 19 Chinese words specifically dedicated to it. This suggests that silk is highly valued and deeply integrated into various aspects of Chinese society, such as fashion, art, and history. Therefore, the correct answer is "important."

A person with an extensional orientation is likely to look beyond the label and inspect the item. This means that they are not easily fooled by superficial information such as labels and instead prefer to gather more detailed information by examining the actual item. They are more focused on understanding the reality of the situation rather than relying solely on labels or appearances.

The characteristics of onlinespeak include short sentences, informality, and decreased use of punctuation. This means that when people communicate online, they tend to use shorter sentences, adopt a more casual and informal tone, and use less punctuation compared to formal writing. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above" as it encompasses all the mentioned characteristics.

Haptics refers to the sense of touch. It involves the perception and interpretation of tactile sensations, such as pressure, temperature, and texture, through the skin. Haptics plays a crucial role in nonverbal communication as it allows individuals to convey emotions, establish connections, and communicate through physical contact. It is an essential aspect of human interaction and can be used to express affection, comfort, empathy, or aggression.

A person who asks questions about the validity of opinions, evidence, and assumptions demonstrates the characteristics of a critical thinker. Critical thinkers are curious individuals who actively engage with information and analyze it in order to form well-reasoned judgments. They question the reliability and credibility of sources, evaluate evidence, and challenge assumptions. By doing so, they strive to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and avoid accepting information blindly. This aligns with the behavior described in the question, making "a critical thinker" the correct answer.

The statement "The word is the thing" is not true. This is because words are symbols that represent objects, ideas, or concepts, but they are not the actual things themselves. Words are a means of communication and can have different interpretations and associations for different individuals. Additionally, words can change meaning over time due to cultural shifts, language evolution, and contextual variations. Therefore, the notion that the word itself is the thing it represents is incorrect.

Nonverbal communication refers to all forms of human responses that are not expressed in words. This includes facial expressions, body language, gestures, and tone of voice. It plays a crucial role in conveying emotions, intentions, and attitudes, often complementing or contradicting verbal messages. Nonverbal communication is essential for effective communication as it helps to enhance understanding, build rapport, and establish trust between individuals.

The word "all of the above" is the correct answer because a word can be seen as a symbol, as it represents things and stands for something else. A word is a visual or auditory representation that carries meaning, allowing us to communicate and convey ideas. It acts as a symbol that represents objects, concepts, or actions, and it can also stand for something else, such as an abstract idea or a metaphorical representation. Therefore, all the given options accurately describe the nature and function of a word.

Timing is the most important element in formative feedback because providing feedback at the right time can greatly enhance its effectiveness. When feedback is given immediately after a task is completed, it is more likely to be relevant and meaningful to the individual. This allows them to reflect on their performance while the task is still fresh in their mind, making it easier for them to understand and apply the feedback to future tasks. Timely feedback also helps to reinforce positive behaviors or correct mistakes in a timely manner, leading to continuous improvement.

Each of the options mentioned - deintensifying an emotion, neutralizing an emotion, and masking an emotion - helps us control our facial behaviors. Deintensifying an emotion involves reducing the intensity of the emotion we are experiencing, which in turn affects our facial expressions. Neutralizing an emotion refers to suppressing or hiding the emotion we feel, which also impacts our facial behaviors. Masking an emotion involves displaying a different emotion than what we are actually feeling, which requires control over our facial expressions. Therefore, all of these options contribute to controlling our facial behaviors.

Eye contact and lack of eye contact can provide us with various types of information. When someone maintains eye contact during a conversation, it indicates that the communication channel is open, and both parties are engaged and actively listening. On the other hand, the absence of eye contact may suggest that the person is disinterested or not fully present in the interaction. Additionally, eye contact can also help us gauge how we are coming across to others, as their reactions and facial expressions can be observed through eye contact. Lastly, eye contact can be used as a signal to end an interaction, as breaking eye contact or avoiding it may indicate that someone wants to conclude the conversation. Therefore, all of these options are valid explanations for the effects of eye contact and lack of eye contact.

According to Albert Mehrabian, when people are compelled to assume inferior roles, they tend to lower their heads. This is based on Mehrabian's research on nonverbal communication, where he found that lowering the head is a common gesture associated with submission or feeling inferior. This behavior is believed to be a result of social conditioning and the instinctive response to display submission in order to avoid confrontation or assert dominance.

Artifacts in nonverbal communication refer to objects or accessories that individuals use to express themselves or convey messages without using words. Jewelry and clothing are both examples of artifacts as they can be used to communicate personal style, cultural identity, social status, or even convey specific messages or meanings. Therefore, the correct answer is both jewelry and clothing.

When we give evaluative feedback, we make judgments --either positive or negative-- based on our own system of values. This means that our feedback is influenced by our personal beliefs, preferences, and standards. Instead of providing objective feedback, we express our own opinions and assessments of the situation or behavior being evaluated. This type of feedback may not necessarily be impartial or unbiased, as it is subjective and reflects our own values and perspectives.

Robin Lakoff suggests that women have a tendency to use "tag questions". This means that women often add a short question at the end of a statement, such as "It's cold outside, isn't it?" This linguistic feature is believed to be more common among women as a way to seek confirmation, show politeness, and maintain conversation flow.

The correct answer is "be person-minded instead of word-minded." This means that instead of focusing solely on the words being used, one should focus on understanding the person and their intentions behind the words. By being person-minded, one can better communicate and avoid misunderstandings or bypassing.

Netiquette is a set of rules for proper online behavior, and one of these rules is that flaming, which refers to hostile and aggressive online behavior, is considered inappropriate. By stating that "Netiquette dictates that flaming is inappropriate," the answer is emphasizing that according to online etiquette, engaging in flaming is not acceptable. This implies that individuals should avoid engaging in such behavior as it can lead to negative consequences, such as a breakdown in communication or perpetuating negative stereotypes.