When interviewing Mauricio about nonverbal communication in El Salvador, he seemed kind of puzzled at first. After explaining it to him, his eyes lit up and he started speaking really fast and with excitement. He explained the way El Salvadorans speak is very similar to North American customs but physical contact is a clear difference. You have to keep a reasonable distance when speaking and it is not proper if you approach too much, even though physical contact is part of our culture. Normally El Salvadorans are very expressive and you will find a range of physical expressions like kisses, hugs, and strong handshakes indicating that you are very welcomed. When speaking, El Salvadorans use their hands and arms a lot, and some times their…show more content… El Salvadorian’s avowal is to be known as friendly and compassionate, especially with family. Communication in El Salvador involves more physical contact than in the United States. When two women have a conversation usually begin with a kiss on the cheek. Handshakes between these groups more closely resemble holding hands or arms and are prolonged. Men who enjoy a close friendship often touch each other on the arm or back. This physicality extends itself to distance when speaking to each other. Salvadorans generally feel comfortable standing or sitting close to each other when talking and touching to emphasize a point in the conversation. I would estimate that the distance when speaking varies between one half to three quarters the acceptable United States bubble (which I estimate to be 2-3 feet). Salvadorans will also use their hands when speaking. Rather than pointing, Salvadorans often make facial gestures, a common one is to purse the lips (imagine lips puckered in preparation for a kiss) in the direction of the person or object one is referring
