The Perception of Nonverbal Behavior in Function of Visible Access to One or Both Interactants

Abstract

Semiotics, broadly defined, is a method of discourse analysis aimed at discovering the deep meaning of the message. As this is generally achieved through structuralist methodology, a major problem of semiotic theory is the incorporation of external variables and their impact on the message. In the realm of the nonverbal component of discourse, Ekman’s approach, in a strict sense, lies outside semiotic theory which favors the structuralist methodology championed by Birdwhistell. Sensu lato, however, the two opposing approaches to nonverbal research can be reconciled and may indeed be necessary for a complete understanding of the semiotic function in kinesics (von Raffler-Engel 1978).