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2.18 Nonverbal Communication: Universal Sign for I Goofed (Obj. 4)

In an effort to promote tranquility on the highways and reduce road rage, motorists submitted the following suggestions. They were sent to a newspaper columnist who asked for a universal nonverbal signal admitting that a driver had “goofed.”76

Your Task. In small groups consider the pros and cons of each of the following gestures intended as an apology when a driver makes a mistake. Why would some fail?

a. Lower your head slightly and bonk yourself on the forehead with the side of your closed fist. The message is clear: I’m stupid. I shouldn’t have done that.

b. Make a temple with your hands, as if you were praying.

c. Move the index finger of your right hand back and forth across your neck—as if you were cutting your throat.