The above image was Donald Trump's Christmas tweet earlier today.
At first glance (literally in a split second) it should strike you that Mr. Trump's body language is dramatically out of context.
A raised clenched fist, with the palm facing outward is a signal of solidarity in the face of active adversity - as well as defiance and resistance.
While the concept and practice of religious and spiritual fellowship does overlap with some aspects of solidarity - in modern contexts these terms (and their corresponding emotions) and have different meanings.
Defiance and resistance are often needed to practice a religion (particularly in the face of prejudice) - however the Christmas season is very profoundly celebratory. Christmas is not about "I'm defying you" or "I'm rebelling against or resisting you" (as a closed, raised, palm-forward fist projects).
The President-Elect's face, while not completely visible, has a mixture of both contempt and disgust - which are also not emotions (or expressions) associated with Christmas.
In addition to the written words, "Merry Christmas", the Christmas tree in the background also adds a profound visual contrast to Trump's Nonverbal messages .
Summary: Donald Trump's Nonverbal message in his 2016 Christmas Tweet Photo is in stark contrast to, and out of context with the message of "Merry Christmas" or other Christmas themes.
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3796: Bryan Cranston, Donald Trump, Anxiety and Alpha Up-Regulators
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3794: Racist Rant at Jefferson Mall in Louisville
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3792: Notre Dame's Matt Farrell and Family Surprised by Brother Bo's Military Homecoming at Basketball Game
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3781: Emma Stone and a Sign of Sincere Laughter
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3772: Mitt Romney Meets with Donald Trump
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3711: Vin Scully calls Kirk Gibson's legendary walk-off homer during Game 1 of the 1988 World Series
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3602: Samantha Cameron's Beta Behavior - How Not to Stand Beside the Prime Minister
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3542: Lara Croft, Keeley Hawes, Sexual Energy and Body Language
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