The theory of Nonverbal Language Integration shows how the ventral vagus nerve pathways of interpersonal communication can be exercised consciously and toned directly through specific facial expressions, gestures, and postures that promote rapport. Rapport involves respect, trust, and confidence. This new theory identifies the interrelationships between specific nonverbal language behaviors (pragmatics), biochemical messengers, parasympathetic vagus nerve activation, rapport, and learning. Dorothy Bohntinsky, a speech-language pathologist since 1976, created this guidebook for all practitioners in healthcare related fields who desire to use pragmatics as a tool for activating the vagus nerve pathways of rapport. The purpose for enhancing rapport is to establish optimum social communication within therapeutic relationships in order to facilitate learning. The word "tool" rather than "treatment" is used in this guidebook because pragmatics is a crucial element of social communication. In this work, you will discover the theory's twist regarding the nonverbal behaviors that are essential for successfully establishing authentic rapport. It does not necessarily involve the smile. Be prepared to follow along with Bohntinsky as she takes you on her journey of discovery. It begins in July 2018, after reading about the physiological similarities between a sports compression collar invented to prevent concussions and the "unknown" functions of the yawn. Working in healthcare since 1976, Bohntinsky knew the yawn enhances attention, voice, and social awareness at the very least. Her writing style invites you to investigate with her as hypotheses are discarded and built upon until the ultimate development the theory of Nonverbal Language Integration. One entire chapter is dedicated to physiology and the functions of the yawn. In this work, you will also find sound supporting evidence from research in neurophysiology, biochemistry, psychology's Polyvagal Theory, and speech-language pathology. The questions, objective observations, and rich variety of literature references guide you to learn as much as you desire how the ventral vagus nerve is activated naturally along with other cranial nerves to dampen the sympathetic autonomic nervous system's adrenalin reaction of fight or flight. Simultaneously, these same nonverbal language behaviors trigger a greater sense of wellbeing. Social interaction and communication is reestablished in a way that invites authentic rapport. Rebalancing the autonomic nervous system for establishing social communication and rapport is an innate mode of functioning. This means it is what people do already. The theory of Nonverbal Language Integration merely brings a voluntary element to what is already happening phylogenetically. Therefore, the theory and exercises are appropriate to use with individuals across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly. Two chapters are dedicated to specific nonverbal language exercises, including a script, which can be used to establish and enhance rapport with clients, families, and caregivers. Ten case examples of adults with communication impairments are presented as well as the results of a peer review. A wealth of relevant information and references are provided in the areas of neurophysiology, biochemistry, and speech-language pathology to spark your interest in doing more research within your field of practice. You are invited to contact Dr. Bohntinsky with questions, to offer suggestions, or to follow her work within this area.
