What does kinesics study?

Kinesics is the study of body motions in communication, focusing on how gestures, facial expressions, posture, and other physical movements convey messages and emotions. This field explores how nonverbal cues can enhance, contradict, or complement verbal communication. For example, a person's body language may reflect their true feelings even when their words may suggest otherwise.

Understanding kinesics is crucial because it provides insights into interpersonal interactions and the dynamics between communicators. For instance, open body posture can signal receptiveness, while crossed arms might indicate defensiveness. By analyzing these nonverbal signals, individuals can improve their communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of social interactions.

The other options pertain to different aspects of communication; while spoken words, environmental influences, and social media all play a role in how we communicate, they do not pertain to the specific study of body motions that kinesics focuses on.