Saturday, November 17, 2012

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2193:
Keira Knightley interview re: "Anna Karenina" -
Body Language of "R2E2" Facial Expression





The beautiful Keira Knightley is interviewed in this promo for her starring role in the recent rendition of Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina". Here she displays in a very brief display (a microexpression) - of a "Rationalization-Rapport-Empathy Expression" (R2E2).

At the 1:13 mark when Keira says the word "don't" the talented actress displays the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression.

To the untrained observer, the R2E2 can look very similar to the disgust nonverbal expression - although it's meaning here is of course, completely different. As a highly context body language, it's used during speech when the speaker is trying to rationalize and/or wants the listener to co-rationalize in their opinion, action, behavior, etc. Empathy and rapport are thus also being sought at these moments. As is the case with 99.9% of nonverbal communication, the R2E2 is initiated subconsciously - and everyone displays this expression.

A paralanguage correlation is important to note here - for there often is an coexisting higher pitch and increased rate of speech during the R2E2. It is also common for there to be a false or forced laughter and a leaning forward. Often there is a touching of the person who is being spoken to - or an abbreviated similar gesture of reaching toward them. These additional paralanguage and nonverbal actions serve as amplifiers and anchors in the effort to gain rapport, empathy and co-rationalization.

When you see the R2E2 displayed, it's a signal that the speaker/displayer believes that you (or they) are not yet fully convinced of their idea, plan, actions - so they are trying to "co-rationalize"- as if you, at least regarding the particular issue, are of one mind. It is an extremely common expression to see in professional sales, negotiations and in romance. Regardless - you are being wooed.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1143: Santorum Video Analysis - R2E2 and other Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1732: Rationalization, Rapport, Empathy Expression - How Jewel got her name






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