What is an example of a relational message?

A relational message refers to the underlying feelings or attitudes expressed between individuals during communication, beyond the literal content of the message. Showing approval or disapproval through body language falls squarely within this category because it conveys emotions and attitudes about the interaction and the message being shared. This nonverbal communication can significantly affect how a message is perceived, often indicating support, agreement, or disagreement, which are all key elements of relational messages.

The other options focus primarily on factual or persuasive aspects of communication. Stating facts during a presentation and using statistics to support an argument are more about delivering information rather than conveying relational dynamics. Sparking curiosity through rhetorical questions might engage an audience intellectually but does not necessarily communicate the interpersonal attitudes or emotions that define relational messages. Thus, the act of showing approval or disapproval through body language is a clear example of a relational message, capturing the emotional context of the interaction.