Kinesics and Vocalics on a First Date
One of the most common scenes prevalent in classic movies is an epic montage set to dramatic music, where the beloved protagonist gets ready for a first date. The character often goes through a makeover and does whatever they can to present themselves as an attractive and suitable mate. If we’ve learned anything from the countless movies, television shows, advertisements, and real-life experiences we’ve had, we know that first impressions are important. Physical appearance plays a large role in creating an image for oneself. However, first impressions are much more than just our genetics, makeup, or clothing choices. How we use our bodies, faces, and voices has a huge impact on how we are perceived.
When a suitor walks up to that front door or into the perfect romantic restaurant, he or she is already communicating who they are just by the way they carry themselves. Posture is not something that we normally consciously think about. However, it is one of the most communicative aspects of our nonverbal cues. In first date settings, most of us want to be perceived as confident people. This can be displayed in the way one holds their body by standing straight with their shoulders back and head up (Manktelow et al., n.d.). Honesty and openness are some other …show more content…
Giving direct eye contact in the western world conveys confidence and boldness, qualities that are highly valued in the United States (Scudder, 2014). Eye contact is also a powerful way to form a feeling of intimacy, something that can contribute to the success or failure of a date. It is often used to create a sense of connection which is arguably the most important goal of dating. Using eye contact in an effective way can also make one appear like an understanding and attentive person. It shows others that they have their date’s undivided attention and makes them feel
One of the most common scenes prevalent in classic movies is an epic montage set to dramatic music, where the beloved protagonist gets ready for a first date. The character often goes through a makeover and does whatever they can to present themselves as an attractive and suitable mate. If we’ve learned anything from the countless movies, television shows, advertisements, and real-life experiences we’ve had, we know that first impressions are important. Physical appearance plays a large role in creating an image for oneself. However, first impressions are much more than just our genetics, makeup, or clothing choices. How we use our bodies, faces, and voices has a huge impact on how we are perceived.
When a suitor walks up to that front door or into the perfect romantic restaurant, he or she is already communicating who they are just by the way they carry themselves. Posture is not something that we normally consciously think about. However, it is one of the most communicative aspects of our nonverbal cues. In first date settings, most of us want to be perceived as confident people. This can be displayed in the way one holds their body by standing straight with their shoulders back and head up (Manktelow et al., n.d.). Honesty and openness are some other …show more content…
Giving direct eye contact in the western world conveys confidence and boldness, qualities that are highly valued in the United States (Scudder, 2014). Eye contact is also a powerful way to form a feeling of intimacy, something that can contribute to the success or failure of a date. It is often used to create a sense of connection which is arguably the most important goal of dating. Using eye contact in an effective way can also make one appear like an understanding and attentive person. It shows others that they have their date’s undivided attention and makes them feel