EXPRESSION AND INTERPRETATION OF ATTRACTION AND INTERPERSONAL INTIMACY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF FEMALE NONVERBAL BEHAVIOUR

Abstract

The study investigates cross-cultural similarities and differences in the expression and interpretation of attraction and interpersonal intimacy. Nonverbal behaviors of American (North America; NUS = 170) and Ukrainian (Eastern Europe; NUA = 173) women were compared. Nonverbal behaviour was coded with respect to speech-related gestures, self-focused/other person focused touching behaviour, eye behaviour, facial expressions, and posture. The results showed that women’s choice is motivated by their intentions of (1) expressing attraction, interest, seduction, flirtatiousness, and excitement, (2) conveying submissiveness, little self-confidence, coyness, and embarrassment, (3) promoting small talk by greeting/parting rituals, (4) communicating self-disclosure/self-presentation. Although these intentions are similar in both cultures, the choice of nonverbal cues is different. These findings have implications for theorizing on cultural norms/gender stereotypes in a contemporary context of flirtation, courtship, and seduction.