Final answer:
In general, research supports the assertion that women use more direct eye contact as part of their nonverbal communication, aligning more closely to socialization practices that emphasize rapport and social connections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question at hand delves into gender and nonverbal communication, recognizing the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon influenced by cultural variations and socialization. Contrary to the assertion that gender differences in nonverbal communication are minimal, research suggests nuanced patterns. Option b), stating that women employ more direct eye contact, aligns with findings indicating that women often use nonverbal cues to establish rapport and foster social connections.
Dismissing gender-specific tendencies would oversimplify the complexities identified in research. Stereotypes, such as options a and d, which suggest women are uniformly more expressive or less prone to using gestures, lack universal support and may perpetuate oversimplified assumptions. Thus, acknowledging the diversity in nonverbal communication across genders and cultures is essential for a comprehensive understanding of this intricate aspect of human interaction.