DECODING NONVERBAL CUES: THE INTERPLAY OF IDENTITY AND COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Social identities are complex constructs communicated through various nonverbal interactional cues. Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in self-expression, emotion conveyance, and establishing social connections. This paper explores how nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice enable individuals to manifest their identities in diverse contexts. The research underscores the significance of nonverbal cues in social interactions, highlighting their role in conveying dominance within group conversations and influencing social cognition. Furthermore, nonverbal communication is pivotal in forming impressions and building trust in interpersonal relationships, extending its impact to digital platforms and online environments. The study employs a micro-level ethnomethodological approach, focusing on nonverbal tendencies observed in public settings, to elucidate how individuals construct and manage their social identities through communicative interactions. this research contributes to understanding the intricate relationship between nonverbal communication and the enactment of social identities by examining nonverbal behaviors across various social identities, including gender, national, religious, and class affiliations.