What are verbal facial expressions or body language, such as a nod of understanding, called?

The term for verbal facial expressions or body language—such as a nod of understanding—is referred to as feedback. Feedback includes both verbal and nonverbal responses that indicate how a message is received by the listener. In a healthcare setting, providing feedback through body language or facial expressions helps convey understanding and engagement in the communication process. This can enhance the connection between healthcare providers and patients, ensuring that the information has been accurately interpreted and understood.

Nonverbal cues, while closely related, specifically refer to the broader category of body language and facial expressions that communicate feelings or attitudes without using spoken words. Communication encompasses all forms of sharing information, verbal or nonverbal, but feedback specifically denotes the response aspect within that communication. Empathy relates to the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which, while important, does not directly apply to the concept of verbal expressions or body language.