Former White House Press Secretary, Dana Perino is shown in this image displaying a specific MAP sub-type. The term "MAP" is an acronym for the body language synonyms, "Manipulators, Adaptors or Pacifiers". A MAP is nonverbal lingo for self-touching - and although their are exceptions, most MAPs indicate increased levels of anxiety. This "Hair Adjust Behind the Ear" (HABE) is no exception.
The hair-adjust-behind-the-ear is seen almost
exclusively with women and gay men although straight men will occasionally display it (The HABE has several stereotypical male analogs - can you name any?). Specifically, when you see the HABE maneuver, the subconscious is
calling on the psyche to "dial-up" the Alpha personality qualities
(e.g. Less Beta and more Alpha).
Of course, sometimes one's hair needs to be adjusted and kept out of one's face - particularly long hair. Dana doesn't have long hair though - and the most of the time, even those with long hair who display this nonverbal, have momentary emotional tones consistent with the "dialing-up my alpha" need. Take mental notes of when you see this gesture - it will surprise you. It's as if the emotional mind is trying to be more assertive, and yet trying to stay composed. The HABE doesn't indicate that the person as a whole lacks confidence - it speaks only to one of the emotions being experienced at that moment.
A very consistent and valuable negotiation signal - the HABE is telling you another
person perceives herself (at least momentarily) at a disadvantage, less confident, and a bit out of their
element.
Although MAPs do not indicate deception directly, it's well established that their frequency increases at
times of deception - especially hand-to-face MAPs. Never self-touch,
particularly your head and especially your face when speaking. While no one watching may have body language training or knowledge, audience members (even an audience of one) will
perceive a speaker as less credible and/or less confident when they commit MAPs. Many are simply left with the feeling that "something doesn't feel right".
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