Nonverbal involvement and social control.

Reviews research on the role of nonverbal involvement (e.g., distance, gaze, touch, lean, orientation, paralinguistic cues, and facial expression) in the interactive function of social control (SC). The SC function describes a general goal of exercising influence to change the behavior of others. Specifically, that process is designed to produce reactions not likely in the absence of such influence. Patterns of nonverbal involvement in the service of the SC function are reviewed in the areas of status, power, and dominance; persuasion; feedback/reinforcement; deception; and impression management. The role of these patterns in the employment interview and counseling situation is addressed. In contrast to the common assumption that nonverbal behavior usually reflects a spontaneous and consistent affective reaction, this research strongly suggests that in many instances nonverbal behavior may be managed to influence the behavior of others. (127 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)