While talking with a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder, a nurse notices the patient is unable to maintain eye contact. The patient's chin lowers to the chest while the patient looks at the floor. Which aspect of communication has the nurse assessed?

A) Nonverbal communication
B) A message filter
C) A cultural barrier
D) Social skills

Major Depressive Disorder

A mental disorder characterized by at least two weeks of pervasive sadness or loss of interest in nearly all activities, along with other symptoms such as feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, changes in sleep or appetite, or thoughts of death.

Nonverbal Communication

The transfer of information through body language, facial expressions, gestures, and other physical cues rather than words.