non-verbal

Correct answer: A. Verbal and non-verbal inconsistency

Explanation: The governing concept is congruence between verbal and non-verbal communication. The spoken agreement communicates acceptance, while the head movement communicates disagreement, so the two channels conflict. This inconsistency can make the listener uncertain about the speaker’s real meaning and may reduce trust; therefore option A is correct. The conflicting cues do not create complete clarity, appropriate distance, or greater credibility.

Correct answer: A. Attention and emotional availability

Explanation: The governing concept is that posture and device behaviour communicate attention without words. Putting the phone face down reduces distraction, while turning toward the speaker shows orientation and readiness to listen. Together these cues suggest emotional availability and empathy. Option A is therefore the best interpretation. Avoidance, impatience, and boundary violation would normally be indicated by withdrawal, interruption, or intrusive behaviour instead.

Correct answer: D. Non-verbal feedback

Explanation: Facial expressions communicate feelings or reactions without spoken or written words, so they provide non-verbal feedback. A smile may show approval or comfort, while a frown or confused look may suggest disagreement or lack of understanding. Written feedback uses text and verbal feedback uses spoken words. “Technical feedback” does not describe the communication form shown by facial expressions, so option D is correct.

Correct answer: B. Positive feedback

Explanation: A smile from the receiver is a non-verbal response and may indicate positive feedback, such as approval, comfort, happiness, or understanding. Its precise meaning can depend on the situation, but when it responds to a message it generally communicates a favourable reaction. It is not the message itself, the channel carrying the message, or disruptive noise. Hence, option B is correct.