#099: I Don't Like Your Tone! The Power of Nonverbal Paralanguage

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Have you ever been told, “I don't like your tone?” That simple statement carries a world of significance. It reflects not just the words spoken but also the emotional context and intention behind them. Our tone of voice serves as a powerful vehicle for transmitting feelings, attitudes, and intentions in every interaction.

In this episode, we explore the intricate world of nonverbal communication, with a focus on tone as a vital component of paralanguage. Join TalkDoc, Meredith and Teighlor, as we unravel the layers of how tone can profoundly shape the interpretation and reception of our messages.

From the volume and pitch to the pace and clarity of our speech, every nuance of tone plays a crucial role in conveying emotions, confidence levels, and overall competence. Drawing from personal experiences, we share anecdotes that illuminate how tone can either strengthen or strain relationships and communication dynamics.

We dive into fascinating research on how voice pitch can influence attraction and how subtle variations in tone can reveal underlying emotions or hidden intentions, often speaking louder than words alone.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a gentle reminder of the power of tone in our everyday interactions. By becoming more aware of our tone and learning to adjust it consciously, we can unlock the potential for more meaningful, empathetic, and impactful communication in both personal and professional realms.

Tune in as we unravel the nuances of tone and its profound impact on our relationships and communication efficacy.

Music by epidemic sound.

SHOW NOTES:

Experts : Gottman, Gottman Institute, Guerrero, Touch Research Institute

Resources :

Maya Angelou quotation:

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Gottman and Notarius (2004): Observing Marital Interaction

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2000.00927.x