Theoretical and Empirical Basics of a Measure of Ability to Adequate Interpretation of Nonverbal Behavior

Abstract

The present study is based on the theoretical approach to the structure of the ability to nonverbal behavior interpretation in which the following principal statements are stressed: nature and functions of nonverbal behavior are re値ected in social interaction, attention to peculiarities of expressive behavior interpretation, signi熭cance of deliberate encoding of expressive behavior and explanation of social and emotional intellect as a complex of personality social abilities. Ability to psychological interpretation of nonverbal behavior consists of a number of sub-abilities which could be assessed through various types of social-perceptive and communication tasks. Adequacy of recognition and understanding of nonverbal behavior forms, adequacy of implementation of nonverbal behavior patterns in relationships regulation; adequacy of expression regulation (encoding) are integral indicators of the ability to adequate interpretation of nonverbal behavior.