When there is a contradiction between verbal and nonverbal communication, which should be believed?

In situations where there is a contradiction between verbal and nonverbal communication, nonverbal cues are generally considered to be more reliable. This is because nonverbal communication often occurs subconsciously and can express emotions and attitudes more accurately than spoken words. People may say one thing but their body language, facial expressions, or tone of voice can convey a completely different message, revealing their true feelings or intentions.

Nonverbal signals, such as eye contact, gestures, or posture, can indicate emotions like confidence, anxiety, or discomfort that may not be conveyed through words. For instance, if someone verbally states they are happy but their posture is slumped and they avoid eye contact, the nonverbal cues suggest they may not truly be feeling happy.

The tendency to trust nonverbal communication over verbal is supported by research in psychology and communication studies, which consistently shows that nonverbal signals often carry more weight in interpersonal interactions. This understanding is crucial for effective communication, as it helps individuals interpret messages accurately.