A Creative Use of Non Verbal Communication

Room Raiders, the show about raiding closets and breaking hearts.

Whoa, what a statement, huh?

I read about how environment is a type of non-verbal communication and how it can convey messages to others. Somehow, it got me thinking and I remembered this particular show that was shown some time ago.

Room Raiders is actually a dating/reality series on MTV. The concept of the show is simple: One person is sent on a search mission in the bedrooms of three unsuspecting strangers who have no idea that someone will be searching through their things. Without a word of warning, armed with the right tools for the ultimate search (rubber gloves and tweezers, naturally) the “raider” will raid the rooms of three unsuspecting people who will have no time to prepare for the break-in. The raider does not meet or see any of the three singles (any personal photographs of the contestant are removed from the room or covered with a smiley face sticker) and chooses to go on a date with one of them based on the contents of their rooms. The three contestants watch and comment, while sitting in a van, as their rooms are inspected. After the raider has finished with each of the rooms, the three contestants then raid the raider's room. Finally, the raider confronts the three contestants and makes his or her choice.

This show can be really funny, even stupid sometimes, but it is still entertaining to watch. Many elements of communication are involved here. First, of course is the fact that the environment can portray things about us. The raider chooses whom he/she will date based on how he/she thinks and feels of the “strangers”, but instead of getting impressed by them through face-to-face means, the raider will have to figure out all of the 3 strangers’ personality based on the environment of their rooms. Then, based on own perceptions, the raider will finally choose which room appeals most to him/her. (What a way to get a date, huh?)

Nonverbal behavior is defined as all behaviors, attributes and objects of humans- other than words- that convey messages and have social meaning. The condition of their bedroom, whether clean ,tidy and organized or dirty ,messy and all over the place can reveal what type of character the owner has. The objects in their room (books, musical instruments, exercise equipments and so on) expose their interests and likes. Secrets are revealed too when diaries, love poems, underwear and even sexual items are all uncovered.

I guess Impression management is definitely not an option for these “poor raided people” now. They have to bear the embarrassment that some part of their perceived self may be revealed out without their liking. Not much deception can be there anymore.

Whatever it may be, I think this show is creative with a unique concept. It may be controversial, heck even not that smart at times, but after all- this is MTV entertainment.

Resources from:

http://www.mtv.com/ontv/dyn/room_raiders/series.jhtml

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Room_Raiders

*Kamilia*