Peacebuilding &conflict transformation A ... - Peaceworkafrica

Body language in conflictNon-verbal body language plays a central role in conflict de-escalation and constructivelytransforming conflicts. Whether consciously or unconsciously, peoplein conflict express their mutual attitudes using body language, and everyoneconveys non-verbal signs of escalation or de-escalation at all times. Body languageconstitutes a direct expression of what is happening in a person, even ifwe claim something else in words. Misunderstandings and problems can easilyresult if feelings are ‘wrongly’ expressed or perceived (my fantasy).Furthermore, symbolic actions play a particularly important role in endingconflicts, both in the private and the public spheres. Gestures of humility andreconciliation signal that the phase of confrontation has come to an end, and thata new phase in the relationship has begun.4. Means of communicationCommunication is a complex process that involves the whole human body – we useall our five senses for sending and receiving. A person does not purely talk verbally,but underlines his/her words at the same time through facial expressions, variousgestures and body movements. Combining various appropriate means of communicationincreases the effectiveness of communication.Hearing using ears to listen to sounds, voices, words.Seeing using eyes to give and receive signs (e.g. a baby is unable to formwords, but communicates by other signs that are understandableto the carer).Touching using physical contact to either hurt, inflict pain or injure(beat, touch something very hot) or to effect positive feelings inothers (a mother gently strokes her child).58 I I . C O M M U N I C AT I O N