Perhaps the most common nonverbal device for reducing conversation-phase stress is eating . Chewing, crunching , and grinding, e.g., reduce tension. Heartbeat slows, pupils constrict, palms warm and dry. Eating together stimulates bonding through the principle of isopraxism , as well, e.g., as couples share nachos, clink glasses, and break fortune cookies together. Oral exam .
Speech tests the limits of physical closeness.
Thus, the conversation phase begins a deep probing, as pointed and subtle questions are asked. Oral gambit . The topic of conversation is irrelevant to the formation of a bond. . . . My boss came in the other day to welcome me to my new position with this organization. I was sitting at my desk in my room.