I agree with your explaination about how hearing people depend very much on tone of voice and what is heard. For example, on reason why I can't watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer is because the characters tone of voice is exagerated and so is their facial expression. It seems like sensory overload to me. On the other hand, if I watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer with closed captioning, it is great. Go figure.
I also think that people are trained to be reserved and conservative when they speak to new people. They rely on their voice to get their meaning across. They are taken aback by the expressiveness of sign language and they feel funny.
I don't feel funny. In fact, I wish I could find out how to use facial expression better. I know I rely on tone of voice too much, myself.
Anyone know how I can improve on this. I am currently in sign language classes.
