Communication abilities as predictors of verbal and nonverbal performance in persuasive interaction

Abstract

This study examined the influence of cognitive complexity and person‐centered verbal ability on verbal and nonverbal performance in persuasive conversation. Verbal ability evidenced in a written message task was positively associated with verbal adaptiveness in persuasive conversation. Cognitive complexity was unrelated to the nonverbal projection of concern. However, verbal ability was associated with the nonverbal projection of concern. Sex of respondent, influential in previous studies of person‐centered communication, was related only to cognitive complexity. The greater cognitive demands associated with actual interaction may suppress the influence of cognitive complexity and sex differences on person‐centered communication in conversation.