The silent dimension of a healthcare narrative: How patients perceive practitioners' nonverbal cues.

摘要

This study examines patient perceptions of medical practitioners' nonverbal behavior. The philosophical framework is based on Buber's (1923/1958) work on "dialogic ethics", and grounded in Giles' (1987) communication accommodation theory. Both quantitative and qualitative data were gathered by means of survey research, and examined through correlational and content analysis. Results show a significant positive correlation between patient perceptions of practitioner nonverbal immediacy and subsequent satisfaction. Analysis of survey comments revealed listening as the nonverbal behavior most valued and noted by patients. These findings serve to inform medical professionals on how to maximize patient satisfaction and care through effective use of nonverbal cues, as well as encourage the addition of nonverbal communication education to medical training curricula.