New Research Says Touching Can Be More Powerful Than Words -- Can People Communicate Through Touch?

Feb. 23, 2010— -- Mounting evidence suggests that a simple touch can mean as much as spoken words. Psychologists researching nonverbal communication have found that gestures, such as touching another person's shoulder or giving a person a hug, can have real power.

Today's Conversation with Diane Sawyer focuses on the power of touch. Check ABCNews.com/WN to watch this afternoon.

Researchers once believed that touch served only to intensify verbal communication and gestures, but new information suggests that touch can express a wider range of emotions faster and more accurately than mere words. Studies have found that touch can reduce stress, and couples who touch frequently have happier relationships.

Do you believe in the power of touch? Have you experienced it in your own life? Our Question to you today: Can People Communicate Through Touch?