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Essay / Symbolic Meanings of the High Five Gesture
I connect with people using a positive nonverbal communication gesture, a high five. A high five is a friendly, neutral action that occurs when two people simultaneously raise a hand and slap the other person's raised palm. High fives are generally considered an interaction gesture that celebrates togetherness. High fives can have a huge effect on people. A high five symbolizes several Franciscan virtues, including fraternity, joy, acceptance, service and peacemaking. Variations of the high five include "up high", "down low" and "air five" – where the participants' hands never touch, giving the impression that they are going to have contact. Another gesture similar to the handshake and high five is the fist bump, a gesture in which two people bump fists. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay This form of nonverbal communication can offer positive feedback. The high five gesture can be considered a greeting, praise, encouragement, compliment, congratulations or celebration. A high five can help people perform better and feel good about themselves. This practical connection can tell a teammate, classmate, teacher, coach, and friend that they are important and special. It is a gesture of approval and respect. Classmates can be seen around the school greeting each other. A teacher may be greeted with a high five. When a friend says they accomplished something they didn't think they could, a five-year compliment is appropriate. These examples convey personal attention and positive emotions. They make people smile and create a healthy environment. The majority of high fives given take place in the sports arena. A celebratory high five is more energetic, electric and exciting than an encouraging high five. In praising, both peoples celebrate each other's achievement but with the same powerful enthusiasm. When playing on the football field, many high fives are exchanged. A touchdown, a good reception, a tackle or a good defensive play can all be recognized with a high five gesture. When playing baseball, a home run, a defensive catch, or a safe slide to a base are causes for high fives. When a free throw or slam-dunk is made, you see the basketball players rush over and acknowledge the feat with a high five. These mutual actions demonstrate camaraderie, high energy and create team spirit. A high five is also used to pick someone up when they might be in trouble. This is when athletes may need a teammate the most. The emotionally depressed athlete may have failed to make the tackle or may have thrown a double play. Or, the disappointed basketball player who missed the game-winning shot as the buzzer sounded. This can lead to a player feeling like they have let the team down. It feels good to make a gesture that means: “It’s okay, I believe in you.” Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay This connection gains trust, builds team bonding and building relationships. This positive act can help the player and team perform better in their next competition. The high five gesture isn't just about raising your hand and slapping another person's palm. The action of high five creates a feeling of unity. Physical connection communicates trust and promotes positive reinforcement...