Abstract:

Using PONS test to measure nonverbal sensitivity on a group of 45 students, all interacting together on daily basis during university first semester we predict that those having nonverbal skills and also centrality or prestige in their groups would enjoy higher grades in the end of the semester. Unlike previous researches that correlated interpersonal sensitivity with popularity in groups (Saarni, 1999; Carton, Kessler &Pape, 1999) we use social network analysis to assess people centrality and prestige and not self or significant others evaluation measurements. Social network analysis techniques proved to be a valid approach to analyze whether the higher nonverbal sensitivity subjects are also popular among their peers and chosen as interaction partners when exchanging information or looking for support. The data suggest that highly nonverbal sensitivity individuals and the most central ones in their networks are those receiving academic success in teh end of the semester.

Keywords:

Nonverbal sensitivity, social networks, students' formal networks, students' centrality and prestige.