Nelson Mandela, a great leader and courageous man past away today. In the above image we see Mr. Mandela exampling all the nonverbal indicators of a sincere smile:
1. Partially Closed Eyelids: This is an absolute requirement for a sincere smile. However not all partially closed lids are indicative of a smile, let alone a true, Duchenne smile; see number 2 ...
2. Concave-Up furrows in the lower eyelids: This finding indicates the contraction of the orbicularis oculi (pars orbitalis) muscle. These are dynamic creases and are not to be confused with the passive wrinkling that is associated with natural changes of aging. This body language occurs concomitantly with number 3 below.
3. Upward Vectored Cheeks: The cheek muscles although contracted partially laterally (outward) pull primarily upward.
4. Only Upward Teeth Should be Visible: Unless there is prolonged posing (wherein the face grows tired), a pronounced camera or height angle difference or over-lapping with laughter - the lower teeth should not be visible.
5. Relaxed Forehead: The forehead muscles should NEVER be contracted during a smile of true joy-happiness. Do not confuse active, dynamic furrows of muscle contraction with the passive wrinkles of aging.
Rest in Peace Nelson.
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2482: Alex Rodriguez's Sincerity - Body Language of a One-Sided Smile
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2474: Mayor Bob Filner's False Smile - Insincerity, Body Language and San Diego
Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2157: Al Smith Charity Dinner Barack Obama's & Mitt Romney's Smiles Sincere or False?
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2515: Eliot Spitzer vs. Scott Stringer Insincere Smile with Anger Component Body Language and the NYC Comptroller Race
Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1905: Ann Curry's Smile and Sincerity Quotient
Dating & Romance Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1010: What Makes the Twinkle in Her Eye? - Rashida Jones
Negotiation Body Language Secret # 353: Brad Pitt's Smiling Eyes - Sincere and Insincere Smiles
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