Two days ago the last republican debate prior to the Iowa Caucuses was held in Des Moines. Currently Ted Cruz is running second to Donald Trump in the Iowa polling. It's well noted that Mr. Cruz is not well liked among his colleagues. Likability has, of course, has many components - and an often completely ignored yet profoundly important ingredient of likability is nonverbal communication.
Between 4:06 - 5:45 in the above video segment of this most recent Republican debate, Mr. Cruz answers a question regarding ethanol. Four times during his answer, Senator Cruz displays his hands configured in what is known as the "Pseudo-prayer". In body language lingo, the pseudo-prayer is an example of an Illustrator-MAP (Manipulator, Adaptor, Pacifier) Hybrid. The pseudo-prayer does not build rapport, nor is it neutral - rather it's a significant rapport destroyer. It projects a patronizing and condescending emotional tone. Moreover the arrogance transmitted by this body language is further amplified when it's clustered with a chopping motion - a faux pas the Texas senator commits several times here.
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3451: Angelique Kerber defeats Serena Williams in Australian Open
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3448: Ted Cruz's Challenge to Debate Donald Trump One-on-One; Cruz's Default Facial Expression
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3443: Donald Trump - "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and Shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose any Voters!"
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3438: Hillary Clinton, What's Your Relationship with Vladimir Putin? - Democratic Debates
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3410: Bernie Sanders Apologizes to Hillary Clinton for Data Breach at Democratic Debate - Body Language Faux Pas
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3404: Bush to Trump, "You're not going to be able to insult your way to the presidency"
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3401: Jeb Bush and Anxiety
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3371: John Kasich at the Republican Debate
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 1866: Miley Cyrus & Liam Hemsworth are Engaged - An Affection-Love Sincerity Signal
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