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These pictorial representations are contributing to our communication engagement by making the communication more lively. Īs the text-based communication become popular, alternate ways for expressing nonverbal signals such as emoji have developed. Despite the importance of nonverbal cues in effective communication, computer-mediated communication tools such as text-based communication (e-mail or text messaging apps) inherently lack nonverbal signals for conveying emotional information.
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In this way, nonverbal signals can change the receiver’s attitude, which can affect his or her reaction to the situation. However, if the person makes the request in an overbearing tone of voice, the mood may be negative, and the receiver may feel coerced to respond. For example, if someone asks, “Could you do me a favor?” with a smile, the mood of the situation may be positive, and the receiver of the question would likely be more willing to respond affirmatively. The function of emotional expressions is not only to express one’s inner state, but also to guide a situation toward an intended mood. In face-to-face situations, people can express their emotions or feelings with facial expressions, voice tones, gestures, and so on. The sharing of emotions among people can elicit empathy, increase a friendly feeling, and even improve mental health.
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