Background of the Study
Nonverbal communication, including facial expressions, gestures, and body language, is a critical component of pragmatic language use, particularly in culturally rich settings such as Abeokuta. Among Yoruba speakers, nonverbal cues complement verbal messages to enhance meaning, manage politeness, and convey emotions that words alone may not express (Olu, 2023). In traditional Yoruba communication, nonverbal behaviors are carefully calibrated to maintain respect and social order. However, modern influences and changing social contexts may be altering these traditional practices. With the advent of digital communication and urbanization, the reliance on nonverbal cues has shifted, potentially affecting the clarity and depth of interpersonal interactions (Adebayo, 2024). This study assesses the role of nonverbal communication in supporting pragmatic language use among Yoruba in Abeokuta by analyzing live interactions, video recordings, and interviews. The goal is to determine the extent to which nonverbal cues are integrated into daily communication and how their use may be evolving in response to contemporary challenges, thus offering insights into preserving cultural practices in modern contexts.
Statement of the Problem
Traditional nonverbal communication practices among Yoruba speakers in Abeokuta are under threat due to modern influences and urban lifestyles, which may reduce the effectiveness of these pragmatic tools (Olu, 2023). The dilution or misinterpretation of nonverbal cues can lead to miscommunications and a loss of cultural nuance (Adebayo, 2024). There is limited research on how these changes impact overall pragmatic language use, necessitating an investigation into the role and evolution of nonverbal communication in contemporary Yoruba discourse.
Objectives of the Study
To document nonverbal cues in Yoruba communication.
To evaluate their role in pragmatic language use.
To propose strategies for preserving nonverbal practices.
Research Questions
What nonverbal cues are most common among Yoruba speakers in Abeokuta?
How do these cues contribute to effective communication?
What challenges affect their use?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it evaluates the role of nonverbal communication in Yoruba pragmatic language use, offering insights for cultural preservation and effective communication strategies. The findings will assist educators, cultural practitioners, and communication experts in maintaining traditional nonverbal practices amid modern influences (Olu, 2023; Adebayo, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to nonverbal communication among Yoruba speakers in Abeokuta and does not extend to other regions or languages.
Definitions of Terms
Nonverbal Communication: The use of gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
Pragmatic Language Use: The effective use of language in social contexts.
Yoruba: The indigenous language of the Yoruba people.
Background of the Study
Export promotion strategies encompass a range of policy measures designed to enhance a country&rsq...
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Food...
Background of the Study
Physical inactivity is a major contributor to the rising prevalence of obesity worldwide. In urban...
Background of the Study
Traditional rulers in Ede South have historically served as custodians of cultural heritage, playi...
ABSTRACT
THE IMPACT OF OVERHEAD COSTS ON BUSINESS PROFITABILITY
This research aims to examine the impact of overhead costs on b...
ABSTRACT
This study was carried out on the residential building collapse in Nigeria: causes, effects a...
Background of the study
This study examines how translation practices help bridge dialectal differences within the Yoruba...
Background of the Study
The performance of agricultural loans is a critical determinant of the overall health of rural banking operations...
Abstract:
This research explores the influence of regulatory changes on management accounting practices...
Background of the Study
The role of emergency nurses is inherently stressful, as they are often the first to provide car...