Incorporating Nonverbal Communication into Dietetics and...

1.1 Introduction This research paper makes recommendations for incorporating nonverbal communication into Dietetics and Nutrition. 1.2 Limitations This report is limited to paralinguistics, gestures, clothing and adornment within nonverbal communication in the field of Dietetics and Nutrition. 1.3 Scope This report aims to highlight the importance of paralinguistics, gestures, clothing and adornment in the setting of Dietetics and Nutrition. Peer reviewed articles and theoretical evidence provided to address how we change individual’s perceptions of professionals by using nonverbal behaviours therefore effecting client health outcomes. Advice and strategies for improving client /professional relationships are included.†¦show more content†¦The appearance of a person helps to make a positive impact. The way one looks and presents oneself indicates the importance one attaches to one’s presence or participation in the occasion. (p. 22). A uniform can identify a professional and implicate a certain level of trust and respect by a client. However, in the field of dietetics and nutrition there is no particular uniform, therefore choosing appropriate clothing attire to gain clients trust can be an issue. Therefore, it is identified that â€Å"The nursing, medical and communication literature shows that a professional’s dress attire is relevant to client-professional interactions because it strongly influences client’s perceptions of their professional’s characteristics† (Heitmeyer Goldsmith, 1990; Nair et al., 2002, as cited in Cant, 2009, p. 504). Hence, clothing and adornment can affect client/professional relationships. 4.0 Paralinguistics 4.1 Paralinguistics in Dietetics and Nutrition Paralinguistics conveys meanings of the words used and not used during communication. â€Å"Paralinguistics: the properties of voices, separate from the words being spoken, that can convey meanings† (Eunson, 2012, p. 263). Mishra (2009) explains; Communication is not merely the use of words, but also includes nonverbal cues, such as, pauses and silence, in addition to the demonstration of vocal characteristics