Explanations of non-verbal behaviour

Psychologists have found evidence that non-verbal behaviour is innate by carrying out research with neonates and the sensory deprived.

Explain what is meant by ‘neonates’ and ‘the sensory deprived’.

The sensory deprived

Explain why a case study can be seen as a suitable method for researching the non-verbal behaviour of the sensory deprived.

Outline Darwin’s evolutionary theory of non-verbal communication.

Describe and evaluate Yuki’s study of emoticons.

Research has been carried out with different cultures to see whether or not non-verbal behaviour is innate.

The results show that the facial expressions of anger and happiness are commonly recognised by most cultural groups around the world.

Outline how you would design a study to investigate whether or not the facial expression of surprise is also commonly recognised.

In your answer:

• identify who your participants would be and explain why you would choose these participants

• describe what you would ask your participants to do and what data you would collect

• identify whether the data you collect would be qualitative or quantitative and explain your answer.

Write a suitable alternative hypothesis for Yuki’s study of emoticons.

Describe the results of Yuki’s study of emoticons.

Suggest a possible conclusion that can be drawn from his results.

Justify your answer.

Imagine that you have been asked to conduct a study to investigate the idea that non-verbal behaviour is learned. Use your knowledge of psychology to describe how you would do this.

In your answer include:

who your target population would be

a description of the procedure you would use and what data you would collect

one ethical consideration you would need to consider and how you would deal with this.

Briefly describe the fight or flight response and Darwin’s theory of non-verbal communication as evolved and adaptive.

Discuss whether or not the fight or flight response can be used to support Darwin’s theory of non-verbal communication. Use your knowledge of both in your answer.

Briefly describe both Yuki’s study of emoticons and Gregory’s constructivist theory of perception.

Discuss whether or not the results of Yuki’s study support Gregory’s theory. Use your knowledge of both in your answer.

Describe and evaluate Darwin’s evolutionary theory of non-verbal communication.