Which concept refers to unspoken communication through facial expressions and gestures?

The concept that refers to unspoken communication through facial expressions and gestures is nonverbal messages. This term encompasses all forms of communication that do not involve spoken or written words, including facial expressions, gestures, posture, and even eye movement. Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in conveying feelings and emotions, often reinforcing or complementing verbal messages.

When individuals communicate, a significant amount of meaning is derived from their body language and the subtle cues they display, which can sometimes convey more than words. Understanding these nonverbal messages is essential for social workers as it aids in building rapport with clients and interpreting their emotional states.

While body language is closely related and refers specifically to the physical behaviors used to express oneself, the broader category of nonverbal messages encompasses all types of nonverbal cues, including body language and facial expressions. Thus, nonverbal messages is the most encompassing and accurate term in this context.