Which factor is NOT a part of non-verbal communication?

Non-verbal communication encompasses a range of methods of conveying information that do not involve spoken or written words. This includes facial expressions, body language, and gestures, all of which play a significant role in how messages are interpreted and understood.

Facial expressions can relay emotions like happiness, sadness, or anger without any words being spoken. Body language refers to the physical aspects of communication, such as posture, proximity to others, and overall movements that can suggest confidence or anxiety. Gestures, which are movements of the hands or other parts of the body, can emphasize points or convey specific meanings that support or sometimes contradict verbal communication.

In contrast, verbal tone—referring specifically to the intonation, pitch, and modulation of speech—is inherently a part of verbal communication. It contributes to the way words are understood but does not fall under the category of non-verbal cues. Thus, identifying verbal tone as a factor separates it from the true essence of non-verbal communication, making it the correct choice for this question.