Final answer:
It is true that nonverbal communication is part of our deep cultural makeup which we are often unaware of. It includes cultural-specific gestures, body language, and facial expressions that influence subconscious behavior and social interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that nonverbal communication is part of our deep cultural makeup that we are often unaware of is true. Nonverbal communication includes a variety of behaviors and signals, such as body language, gestures, facial expressions, and paralanguage. This form of communication is symbolic and is largely learned through cultural context. For example, a smile usually represents joy universally, but a thumbs-up gesture may signify something positive in one culture and be an offensive sign in others. We engage with others using a shared set of cultural norms, including nonverbal cues, which remain largely subconscious but heavily influence how we behave and interpret social interactions.
Cultural differences also play a pivotal role in communication. Even though certain physical expressions like smiling or crying are almost universal, the rules that govern when and how these expressions should be shown can vary significantly from one culture to another. Indeed, what is considered appropriate in terms of body language, personal space, and even eating habits can differ drastically across cultures, thereby challenging our ability to navigate social situations in unfamiliar cultural settings.
Therefore, nonverbal communication is not just a simple set of automatic gestures, it is a complex and culturally specific language on its own. When experiencing a new culture, like the character Caitlin, individuals might feel out of place not because they can’t speak the language, but because they have not yet mastered the subtleties of nonverbal cues that are deeply embedded in that culture's way of life.