Engineerstef11 writes:
Dr. Vicars,
I've been using your site to learn ASL for a variety of reasons: my friend is
deaf in one ear, I work in a very loud environment which sometimes prevents
verbal communication, I sometimes am unable to process speech well due to
various types of anxiety, I've always found the language beautiful, and perhaps
most importantly, because my youngest cousin is non-verbal.
My question is, how does one communicate the concept of "non-verbal" in sign
language, as distinct from deaf? For example, if someone were to ask me, "YOU
LEARN SIGN WHY?" or "YOUR FAMILY DEAF?" I would want to respond, "NOT DEAF, MY
COUSIN-small <insert sign(s) meaning 'non-verbal' here>". Is there a specific
sign for non-verbal, or would i just say something like he doesn't want to/like
to speak? Or would he be considered culturally Deaf for purposes of a simple
conversation, and I would clarify the specifics later if it became important?
Thank you for your time (and for your amazing and wonderful website!),
- Steven [name changed to protect his privacy]
Dear Steven,
See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S8dgbKhxpA
However, that sign (MUTE) is
controversial and you'd be better off just signing:
MY COUSIN HE CAN HEAR BUT HE NOT USE VOICE.
See: VOICE:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlvSqnQhjOw
- Dr. V.
Notes:
The term "nonverbal" can mean either:
1. Not speak.
2. Not use words.
(Over at dictionary.com they state it as, "not involving or using words or
speech."
-----------
The problem here is when people try to apply both definitions at the same time to the phrase "nonverbal communication."
Notes: