Which element is part of the paralinguistic features of communication?

The correct choice represents the concept of paralinguistic features, which encompass the vocal elements that accompany speech but are not part of the actual words used. Stress refers to the emphasis placed on particular words or syllables within speech, influencing tone and meaning without changing the actual words. This vocal emphasis can alter the intent or emotional expression behind a message, making it a crucial part of paralinguistic communication.

In contrast, the other options focus primarily on different aspects of communication: word choice pertains to the specific vocabulary selected, which is a semantic feature; proxemics deals with the physical distance between speakers as a nonverbal cue; and body language refers to gestures and facial expressions that convey information or emotion. While all these elements contribute to effective communication, stress is specifically classified under paralinguistics as it directly relates to how the words are delivered, rather than what the words mean or how they are physically presented.