1. Read this scenario and answer the questions that follow by applying the concepts of nonverbal communication we discussed in this chapter:

Jesa and Madison were lounging on a blanket in the park one spring afternoon, enjoying the sunshine as they reviewed for an upcoming test. Jesa looked into the distance, then jerked her head around, bolted upright, quickly gathered her things, and quietly said, “See you back at the apartment.” With that she took off at a fast clip.

Madison quickly glanced in the direction that Jesa had been looking just before she took off, then shouted, “Wait a sec, I’m coming too.”

Once they were back in their apartment Madison sighed and said, “Okay, Jesa, what’s really going on with you? Who was that guy you saw in the park?

And why are you acting so scared?”

“What guy? I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Jesa mumbled, looking down at her feet. “And I’m not scared,” she added as she turned to the window pulled back the corner of the curtain and peeked outside.

● How is each of the characteristics of nonverbal communication exemplified in this scene?

● Do you think Jesa was telling the truth? What about her nonverbal communication led you to this conclusion?