Final answer:
People might produce more gestures during abstract problems due to the lack of physical referents and the higher complexity involved in expressing intangible concepts. Concrete ideas typically have clear, tangible references, likely reducing the need for gesturing. Gesturing is also crucial in conveying emotions associated with abstract concepts.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering whether would people produce more gesture during concrete or abstract problems, it is essential to explore the connection between language, thought, and bodily movements. Gestures are often used to convey meaning and facilitate the communication of thoughts, particularly when dealing with complex or nuanced concepts. Research suggests that gestures can indeed pave the way for language development and are integrally tied to how humans express and process thought.
Concrete terms refer to objects or events that are available to the senses, whereas abstract terms refer to ideas or concepts that are not directly experienced through the senses. When it comes to problem-solving or communicating about concrete ideas, people often have a clear and tangible reference to point to, which may reduce the need for gesturing. In contrast, abstract thoughts may prompt more gesturing because they are not linked to a specific sensory experience, requiring more effort to convey.
Moreover, gesture can be an important tool in expressing emotions that are typically associated with abstract concepts. In art, such as Abstract Expressionism, movements and gestures themselves become a fundamental part of the creation process, illustrating the deep connection between abstract ideas and the use of gestures. In instances of teaching, such as a class exploring the concrete details of a motorcycle accident, the emotional level conveyed through concrete vocabulary could require gesturing to enhance understanding.
Therefore, it could be posited that people might produce more gestures when dealing with abstract problems rather than concrete ones due to the absence of physical referents and the need to express complex or intangible ideas through bodily movement.