Final answer:
The statement is true. Listeners' body language provides essential emotional context to their words, indicating whether they are engaged or not, and carries different meanings in different cultural contexts. This nonverbal communication can be as informative as spoken words and is essential for effective interpersonal interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "The listeners' body language often tells the speaker as much as his/her spoken words" is generally true. Listeners convey a wealth of emotional information through nonverbal cues including their posture, facial expressions, and other body language. While words are the primary mode of communication, body language provides additional context that can be essential to understanding a speaker's message and intention.
Research highlights our sensitivity to this aspect of communication, suggesting even when we're not consciously aware, we interpret and react to others' body movements and expressions. These can signal to the speaker whether the audience is engaged, confused, in agreement, or disagreeing with what is being said. Cultural norms also play a significant role, as certain gestures and expressions carry different meanings in different societies.
In face-to-face interactions, the speaker can use this feedback to adjust their message, improve understanding, or strengthen their connection with the audience. Knowing how to read and apply body language effectively in these contexts is a valuable skill that comes into play during public speaking, negotiations, and everyday interpersonal relations.