| Abstract: | Although helper nonverbal behavior presumably is important for effective helping, few studies have examined its importance for clients in actual helping interactions. In the present study with 168 undergraduates, several nonverbal behaviors of helpers in a small group were tallied and related to independent judgments of the helper made by observers and the person being helped. Trained observers' ratings of overall effectiveness were related to frequency of smiling and nodding. Ratings made by other group members also showed significant relationships to the nonverbal behaviors. Helpee-related understanding and warmth correlated with frequency of helper nodding. The low but significant correlations suggest that nonverbal behaviors are but one set of cues that lead to clients' first impressions of their helpers. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
