“Tribe Talk” (Ch. 6 Verbal & Nonverbal Communication)

In chapter 6, Verbal and Nonverbal Communication in Groups we are presented with the ideas that our plural pronouns “announce that the group depends on everyone rather than on a single member”(127). This was very evident in Episode 6 showing the merge, where emotions were on the rise and alliances were being put in line. Alec displays a strong tie to his tribe and their abilities, and to make sure they know it he says phrases such as “our tribe”; creating unity. Jeremy also claims his tribe with encouraging phrases such as “we can win as team”, and usually gravitate to that in a group. Where this differed was during the stressful time before tribal council, because hidden agendas are all about the “I” language we use. This is a language of taking responsibility, and they will use phrases such as “I need you”. Saying that still gives you a sense of dependency but it is for a personal reason.
The team talk dimension I noticed was that of Social Equality when using casual and informal language. This was not equal throughout the tribe, Alec contributed to the social equality between the men by saying things like “Bitch, this is survivor” and treating Baylor as a little sister he feels he can boss around. Therefore the talk dimension between the guys and girls of Coyopa were different.
Lastly, I noticed nonverbal communication when Jeremy was noticeably upset about his team forfeiting all of their comfort items for rice. He seemed to separate himself from the tribe for a while, and in interviews his facial expressions and lack of verbal complaining showcased his true emotions. This merge will make the dynamics of their team talk very interesting, I look forward to seeing how their alliances will play out.