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. 2015 Sep 22;31(2):144–155. doi: 10.1177/1533317515603500

Table 3.

Nonverbal Communicative Behaviors.

Affirmative Nodding Nodding head as a sign of approval, encouragement, or interest in the resident.
Resident-Directed Eye Gaze Looking at the face of the resident.
Smile Expression in which the corners of the mouth are directed upwards, denoting affability toward the resident.
Laugh Opening the mouth (totally or partially), making a sound commonly associated with the act of laughing.
Withholding Refusing a residents’ request or question. Includes statements from the resident that the DCW does not acknowledge (eg, resident asks if she can return to her room and the DCW does not respond).
Affective touch Spontaneous and affective touch that is not necessary for the completion of a task (eg, a pat on the back, a hug).
Guiding touch Using touch to draw the person’s attention or guide him or her for a task.
Instrumental touch Deliberate physical contact, which is necessary for the completion of a task.

Abbreviation: DCW, direct care worker.