Final answer:
Cultural norms for nonverbal expressiveness, such as gestures and facial expressions, can vary across different cultures and influence how these are interpreted. They are not universal and are a key aspect of cross-cultural communication. For instance, a thumbs-up gesture might be positive in one culture but offensive in another.
Step-by-step explanation:
The answer to the student's question, 'Which of the following is true about cultural norms that govern nonverbal expressiveness?' is that c) They may vary, influencing gestures and expressions. This is true because cultural norms around nonverbal communication, like gestures and facial expressions, are not universal and can differ significantly from one culture to another. The implications of these variations are significant in cross-cultural communication, as the same gesture can convey different meanings in different cultures, and some nonverbal expressions are interpreted differently based on the cultural context.
For example, a thumbs-up gesture is a sign of approval in many Western cultures, but in some places like Russia and Australia, it can be interpreted as an offensive curse. Likewise, smiles and crying are natural expressions that are often understood universally, but how often and under which circumstances these expressions are culturally appropriate to display can vary. Understanding the role of cultural norms in nonverbal communication is key to navigating social interactions and avoiding miscommunication in diverse cultural settings.