Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3605: John Kennedy, Hands on Podium and Body Language (PHOTOS)

























This image of President Kennedy was taken on 12 September 1962 during a speech at Rice University in Houston, Texas. The address was originally titled "Address at Rice University on the Nation's Space Effort" - but it soon became known as the "We Choose to go to the Moon" speech (because of a particularly strong line and the corresponding change of Kennedy's tone, rhythm and volume).

From a body language perspective, one thing John Kennedy did was to rest his hands on the SIDES of  the podium (lectern). It's an important distinction that they were not placed on the back edge (closest to him). He was the first President to do this for which there is a prominent photographic record. He so not because he was counseled to by an expert, rather because it took pressure off of his back - for he had suffered a serious injury in World War II as well as degenerative spinal disease secondary to medications he took before the war.

Historically and from a body language point-of-view, this habit of resting his hands on the sides of the lectern also benefited the President significantly. It's one of many examples of what are known as "Alpha-Beta Hybrids". As the name implies, these are nonverbal behaviors which are not too alpha and not too beta - but somewhere in the middle. The further the hands are placed forward on the lectern, the more alpha this signal becomes.

Most people who use alpha body language signals tend to over-use these. And very often those individuals displaying beta signals will also "overdo it" and be too demure. Thus it makes perfect sense to be able to know exactly how and when to adjust one's nonverbal behavior for what is needed in the specific situation at hand. Of course, even alpha-beta hybrids can be over-used. Body Language should NEVER be used with a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Like Jazz or improv - a person should always be observing and morphing to the moment.

Women politicians (and other "leaders") should use this specific nonverbal behavior much more often. Many women (mistakenly) may hesitate to do so for fear they it makes them look too masculine. It is however a difficult body configuration to make for many women to make because of their relatively shorter stature. Although it is cost prohibitive for many, other "leaders" who are less tall would be well-advised to bring a custom lectern with them.

Bill Clinton and Donald Trump are two prominent examples of other politicians who routinely use the "Kennedy Lectern Lean".

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3604: Nigel Farage, Jean-Claude Juncker, The Brexit and "Why Are You Here?"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3583: Donald Trump, Reaching out to Bernie Sanders' Supporters and Insincerity Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3578: Megan Fox, Body Language and Dismissive Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3465: Hillary Clinton's Dominant Spider

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3441: Michigan Governor Rick Snyder Interview regarding Flint's Water Crisis - Is He Being Honest and Sincere?

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3422: unplanned pregnancy : Deaf husband finds out wife is pregnant - Body Language and Emotional Shock

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3418: Mayor Eric Garcetti, The Port of Los Angeles and a Body Language Mistake Leaders Commit Routinely

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3393: Syed Rizwan Farook, Tashfeen Malik, San Bernardino Shooting and Predicting Violent Behavior


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Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3604: Nigel Farage, Jean-Claude Juncker, The Brexit and "Why Are You Here?" - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





Earlier today Nigel Farage, the leader of the far-right UK Independence Party (UKIP) asked for free trade with the EU while in the same breath insulting its leadership (e.g., "I know that virtually none of you have ever done a proper job in your lives or worked in business or worked in trade or indeed ever created a job. But listen, just listen ...").

During his retort to Farage, Jean-Claude Juncker, the President of the European Commission (and former PM of Luxembourg), replied, "That's the last time you are applauding here," as well as, "You were fighting for the exit, the British people voted in favor of the exit. Why are you here?"

























Perhaps the two men did not fully anticipate the upcoming exchange or their emotional crescendos'. Or maybe they are very good friends - almost like family - but as with some families, fallout is just around the corner. For in the video above (before the session began) and captured in these still images, we see the them embracing. Moreover Juncker even cradles Farage's head and whispers in his ear. While some may site this as a manner to speak to him semi-privately in what is a crowded and noisy environment - it's also very much an encroachment into his personal space (more specifically, his intimate space).






















In addition Juncker is exhibiting full palmar contact with both hands (although Farage's right hand in the above image appears to be somewhat cupped - thus touching, but not fully, Mr. Juncker). Despite the sharp verbal exchange which is soon to follow, this nonverbal behavior is indicative of more than just protocol, practicality or politeness - it's a strong signal of significant affection - particularly of Mr. Junker for Mr. Farage).

This was either a ruse (the two men are much closer than it would otherwise appear) or it's the fracturing of a friendship.
























See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3603: David Cameron's Resignation, The Brexit and Beta Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3595: LeBron James, Disbelief and Emotional Processing

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3584: Brock Turner's Mugshot, Duping Delight and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3572: Bernie Sanders on Jimmy Kimmel - regarding Donald Trump Debate

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3512: Emilia Clarke, "Me Before You" and Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3477: Henry Cavill Asks Children - Batman or Superman? 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3454: Donald Trump - Buying the Farm after 2nd Place Finish in Iowa Caucuses

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3496: Hillary Clinton and George W. Bush Hugging at Nancy Reagan's Funeral

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3603: David Cameron's Resignation, The Brexit and Beta Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





With last week's Brexit vote and its far reaching ramifications, the people of the United Kingdom elected to leave the European Union.

During his address the following day, David Cameron also announced his resignation. As with every address to his country, this Prime Minister transmitted a multitude of nonverbal tells - and one of these which very much jumps-out is discussed below.

























During his speech PM Cameron alternately rested each foot on the base of lectern (which was 2.0 - 2.5 inches high).

























This action shifted his weight significantly along with tilting his torso and lowering his shoulder on the opposite side.
























David Cameron is a very experienced speaker - and yet this is a common rookie mistake. It's a highly significant anxiety indicator. Of course the Prime Minister is also only human. And although he "should be" allowed to be nervous - we don't expect this behavior from a head-of-state.


























Depending on the other nonverbal signals with which it is clustered, resting one's foot on the base of a lectern can sometimes project aloofness - but here David Cameron is certainly not aloof. His nonverbal signals project a tentativeness.

A person with an alpha emotional tone who's projecting power, confidence and assertiveness will have both feet flat on the ground - about shoulder's width apart (and slightly less for women). Conversely a person with a beta mindset will often lift a foot (or a portion of it) - as does Cameron. Never try to close a sale (or negotiation) unless the prospective customer has both feet flat on the floor.

Of course it's not every day the leader the United Kingdom resigns.


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3602: Samantha Cameron's Beta Behavior - How Not to Stand Beside the Prime Minister

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3292: Empathy, Yawning and Dogs

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3553: Donald Trump, Deception, Facial Touching and Empathy 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3578: Megan Fox, Body Language and Dismissive Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3412: Affluenza Teen Ethan Couch is on the Run

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3386: Lady Steals from KID! Black Friday 2015

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3356: Anna Faris and Chris Pratt are Dressing their Son Up as a Dinosaur for Halloween

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3333: Did Bill Clinton ask Donald Trump to Run for President?



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Sunday, June 26, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3602: Samantha Cameron's Beta Behavior - How Not to Stand Beside the Prime Minister - Body Language (PHOTOS)


























Last Friday David Cameron gave a speech outside Number 10 regarding the Brexit. He also announced his intention to resign. His spouse Samantha stood off to his left according to protocol. What was not protocol however was the way she was standing.





Note that her left arm is reaching behind her back with her hand holding her right arm at the elbow. This arm configuration is both casual and tentative. In the alpha-beta body language continuum - this stance is considerably beta and indicative of relatively low confidence and emotional discomfort. While she is only human, and of course very disappointed in the prior day's turn of events - a person should never stand in this manner while on stage or next to a person giving a speech - particularly when that person is a head-of-state.













This website serves as an objective reference source for the science and art of Body Language/Nonverbal Communication. In an effort to be both practical and academic, many examples from/of varied cultures, politicians, professional athletes, legal cases, public figures, etc., are cited in order to teach and illustrate both the interpretation of others’ body language as well as the projection of one’s own nonverbal skills in many different contexts – not to advance any political, religious or other agenda.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3601: Casey Neistat & Candice Pool - Water Spit Challenge - Laughing and Mirror Neurons

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3599: The Brexit, David Cameron announces his Resignation and Protection

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3597: David Cameron, The Brexit and Suppressing Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3581: Hillary Clinton and Likability

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3470: Taylor Swift's Speech at 2016 Grammys

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3469: Leonardo DiCaprio and Dame Maggie Smith on BAFTA Awards Kiss Cam - The British Academy Film Awards

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3445: Harrison Ford Re-enacts 'I Love You' Scene from Star Wars - The Graham Norton Show

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3457: Chelsea Clinton refers to Bernie Sanders as "President Sanders


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3601: Casey Neistat & Candice Pool - Water Spit Challenge - Body Language, Laughing and Mirror Neurons (VIDEO, PHOTOS)



Photo credits: Casey Neistat


In this recent video by Casey Neistat we see some fantastic examples of both laughter suppression and mirror neurons in action.

Beginning at 7:43 - Neistat sits down with his wife, Candice Pool, and after a brief moment with mouthfuls of water, they break into laughter and spit on each other. Candice loses it first.
























You may say, "That's just so funny... and I can't figure out why!" or something similar. Well, besides this scenario immediately and profoundly bringing out the inner child in us, it also activates our mirror neurons.
























You don't have to know that they're husband and wife, but it's immediately very obvious that Neistat and Pool have affection for each other. But even if they didn't, not laughing is such a scenario would be extremely difficult. Pool loses her ability to suppress her laughter (and therefore holding her water in too) immediately after she makes eye contact with her husband (note how Casey says, "Don't look at me", as they fill their mouths' with water). If Candice had kept her eyes closed or stared off in the distance - she could have suppressed her laughter for longer. However eye contact - particularly at such a close distance - evokes an immediate connection with the other person - and the all the emotions leading to laughter undergo a rapid crescendo.

























Intriguingly, the simple act of suppressing laughter or suppressing a smile (even if there was no initial stimulus for doing so) makes one more likely to laugh. This is why so many comedians will have a "just about to laugh" type facial expression - and via empathy neurons (aka mirror neurons) it primes the audience (and their selves) to smile and laugh much easier. Thus when Casey and Candice look at each other - Casey lasts about a second before she loses control and spits.


























And as with many things, when laughter is suppressed - when it does escape, it becomes amplified.

Another profound phenomenon is exampled here. For people who can regularly and consistently make a partial (while sincere) smile, will find it to be a very reliable and powerful mood-elevator.

Our mirror neurons are activated too. And even thought almost no one watching this video knows either Neistat or Pool personally, we also participate in the crescendo - and laugh along with them. It's almost as if they put water in our mouths and bring us there with them.


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3599: The Brexit, David Cameron announces his Resignation, Protection and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3596: Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds and Deadpool

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3587: The Orlando Mass Shooting, Omar Mateen and Warning Signs - Body Language Red Flags

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3564: Kanye West, Ellen and Beta Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3551: Donald Trump, Body Language and an Alpha-Beta Hybrid

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3554: Paul Allen, Steph Curry and the "Slack Jaw"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3506: Jake Gyllenhaal Bombed His Lord of the Rings Audition

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3547: Kate Middleton on Cover of Vogue's 100th Anniversary Issue


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Saturday, June 25, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3599: The Brexit, David Cameron announces his Resignation, Protection and Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





On Thursday the citizens of the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union. The final Brexit voting tallied at about 51.9% to leave the EU, while 48.1% voted to remain.

Yesterday David Cameron gave a speech outside of Number Ten, where, among other subjects, he announced his intention to resign from his position of Prime Minister.

From a nonverbal communication perspective, there were several very significant tells. The one discussed here is particularly illustrative.

Beginning at 1:25 in the video above, Cameron continues saying, "This will need to involve the full engagement of the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland governments to ensure that the interests of all parts of our United Kingdom are protected and advanced ..."

During 1:35 - 1:36, as he says, "... are protected ...", he initiates a buttoning of his suite jacket. In this moment his body language behavior was highly congruent with his verbal language. He very much desires to protect the UK (and himself) - and the buttoning of his jack demonstrates his own beta behavior and the desire to be protected.

Of course if you're outside and it's cold, the issue is temperature - however this is rarely the case. 

One time you NEVER should attempt a crucial part of a negotiation, try to close a sale or ask for something important - is just after the person with whom you're speaking buttons (or zips or pulls together) their jacket - for they have just metaphorically donned their armor.

























See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3598: Gary Johnson, Donald Trump's Wall and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3594: Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Fareed Zakaria

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3584: Brock Turner's Mugshot, Duping Delight and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3580: Muhammad Ali, Donald Trump, Repulsion and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3578: Megan Fox, Body Language and Dismissive Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3538: Barack Obama, David Cameron, Number 10 and the Brexit

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2433: Vladimir Putin & David Cameron Disagree on Syria - A Body Language Evaluation of Russian Leader

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2409: David Cameron & François Hollande - Variations on the Hand Chop & Palm Orientation


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Thursday, June 23, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3598: Gary Johnson, Donald Trump's Wall and Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





It should come as no surprise from a political point of view, the 2016 Libertarian Party's Presidential Candidate Gary Johnson and his running mate Bill Weld strongly disagree with many of Donald Trump's proposals. A body language tell seen during this interview provides a text book teaching moment.

From a nonverbal perspective the former Governor of New Mexico in particular lets his feelings show.

Beginning at 2:19 Johnson says, "... and I'm just telling you - this is incendiary!" (In reference to Trump's proposed Wall on the US-Mexico Border).

As he says the word, "incendiary", he displays a facial expression of classic disgust (2:21).

























See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3597: David Cameron, The Brexit and Suppressing Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3592: Gary Johnson, The Libertarian Party and Beta Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3479: Vicente Fox regarding Donald Trump's Proposed Wall - ‘I’m not going to pay for that F***ing wall!’ 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3470: Taylor Swift's Speech at 2016 Grammys

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3453: Marco Rubio's Hyper-Alpha, Backfiring Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3465: Hillary Clinton's Dominant Spider

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3440: Sarah Palin Endorses Donald Trump - What Trump Really Thinks About Palin


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Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3597: David Cameron, The Brexit and Suppressing Emotions - Body Language (PHOTOS)






















The decision on the EU Referendum (Brexit) will be made in the next few hours. David Cameron is, of course, the lead advocate of the "Remain" camp. Thus these expressions are very probably representative of the Prime Minister's emotional tone at this moment.

In the first image (above), Mr. Cameron is displaying an “Inward Lip Roll (ILR). An inward lip roll is just one of many nonverbal tells signaling that the emotion being felt (or though-felt) is significantly greater (and/or different) vs. what is being expressed verbally. Such verbal-nonverbal disparities are profoundly important glimpses into another person’s mind - as well as our own when we're projecting body language/facial expressions.

As its name suggests, during an ILR the lips are rolled inward and gently (to moderately) bitten. In all but the milder examples, this is also accompanied by a jaw jut (jaw pushed outward) along with a wrinkling/dimpling of the chin. The “mustache area” is also tensed as this mid-facial tissue is put on stretch. In addition, there usually is at least a mild-moderate degree of nostril flaring (as is seen in this example).

In the setting of an inward lip roll, the psyche is attempting to suppress strong feelings from building up as well as suppressing these emotions from being expressed outwardly. The ILR is usually associated with negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, sadness, etc., however it's also one method we all commonly use (most of the time subconsciously) in preventing laughter or smiling out of social context.

























In this second image, Prime Minister Cameron’s facial nonverbals are similar, yet somewhat more developed. Note the additional finding of a more reddened facial color - including his ears. This betrays the presence of a valsalva-like phenomenon of semi breath-holding and increased intrathoracic pressure resulting in a temporary pooling of blood in the head/face. This also causes the distention of the jugular vein (seen in his left neck). If we had a blood pressure monitor hooked up to the PM, we would see a significant rise in this moment.

Intriguingly, those individuals who regularly practice yoga and other meditative activities will have this facial expression much less frequency.

Whenever observing nonverbal behavior, it's extremely important to never interpret in isolation and always look at the other components of a person's over-all body language. What do David Cameron's eyes say about his total expression? If his eyes were opened very widely with these same mouth configurations, what emotion would that indicate?

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3596: Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds and Deadpool

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3591: Jo Cox, The Brexit and Sincere Smiles

Nonverbal Communication Analysis 3586: Barack Obama, Jimmy Fallon, Alpha-Beta Hybrids and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3577: Tape Face - America's Got Talent 2016 Auditions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3573: Angela Merkel, the G7, Destroying Rapport and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3531: Helen Mirren, Subways, Sincerity, Empathy and Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3509: Bernie Sanders meets Birdie Sanders

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3473: Adele's Tongue, Ellen DeGeneres and Body Language


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3596: Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds and Deadpool - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





Blake Lively was a guest on Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show yesterday. Just after the actor told a story referencing her husband, Ryan Reynolds, in a sexual scenario during Deadpool, the actor displayed a classic and often misunderstood and/or over-generalize nonverbal tell - the False Earring Adjustment.

Sometimes manifested as an Earlobe Pull (or pinch), the false earring adjustment signals the emotion of "I can't believe I (or you) just said that!" - transmitting the social awkwardness accompanying the emotion of embarrassment.

Although seen in all genders, this nonverbal display is more common in women and gay men.

Note that Jimmy Fallon, feeling similar emotions as his guest, immediately looks down at his notes in another misdirection manifestation of embarrassment-anxiety.

Depending on additional nonverbal signs with which it is clustered (none of which are seen here), what other thought-emotions can the ear pull/false earring adjustment signal?





















See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3595: LeBron James, Disbelief and Emotional Processing

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2: Body Language of Blake Lively and Penn Badgley Strongly Suggests an Impending Break-up in Near Future

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3549: Speaker Paul Ryan's interview with Jake Tapper - "I'm just not ready" to Support Donald Trump

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3568: Hillary Clinton, (Low) Likability, Rapport (Destroying) and Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3454: Donald Trump - Buying the Farm after 2nd Place Finish in Iowa Caucuses 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2701: Cuddling, Romance, Affection and Foot-Shunning

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2579: Brandon Bryant Body Language of Disgust and Empathy - Confessions of a Drone Operator

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2313: Elisa Lam Video in Elevator at Cecil Hotel - What Her Body Language Tells Us ....

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Monday, June 20, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3595: LeBron James, Disbelief and Emotional Processing - Body Language (PHOTOS)



























This is LeBron James last night just after he lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 93-89 victory over the Golden State Warriors in Game Seven of the 2016 NBA Championship.

LeBron collapsed to the floor and began crying tears of joy. In this image we can see him covering his face with his right hand. The vast majority of the time when people cover their eyes in scenarios similar to this - it's NOT to prevent people from seeing their tears - but it's because they are in a sudden and deep sense of disbeliefTheir "logical brain" knows what has transpired - but their "emotional brain" has not yet caught up. Thus this sudden facial/eye covering is a nonverbal sign of emotional processing.

If we could somehow watch all Cleveland fans, very many of them would have a similar hand-face body language configuration. Therefore it's NOT a requirement that one be directly involved in the event - but seeing or hearing about it - even via second or third hand information will often evoke a similar response. It is also just as common (if not more so) when it's bad news that's being witness/delivered.

Fascinatingly, those who display this nonverbal signal for another person's joy or tragedy - will also have higher empathy quotients (as well as greater compassion and affection).


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3594: Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Fareed Zakaria

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3592: Gary Johnson, The Libertarian Party and Beta Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3589: Barack Obama's retort to Donald Trump regarding ISIS

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3582: Brock Turner's Dad Draws Outrage of "20 Minutes of Action" - Lack of Empathy and No Remorse

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3574: Selena Gomez's Body Language Reaction to Fans in Montreal

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3554: Paul Allen, Steph Curry and the "Slack Jaw"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3539: Conspicuous by it's Absence - Donald Trump's Missing Expression

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3512: Emilia Clarke, "Me Before You" and Body Language

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Sunday, June 19, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3594: Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Fareed Zakaria - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





Although it is brief, this video segment of Vladimir Putin and Fareed Zakaria is packed with some very classic and particularly telling nonverbal signals. Several of these are highlighted below. 

During the early portions of the above video segment (0:17 - 0:18, 0:20) - and once again at towards the end (1:55 - 1:58), Mr. Putin's left middle finger is covering his lips in a horizontal orientation.

This is an example of a very specific body language display known as a "Partial Emblematic Slip".

The display of a middle finger (giving "The Finger") extended while the other digits are flexed (contracted) is one type of an "Emblem" - the meaning of which is well acknowledged and known World-wide. Of course this gesture, when fully expressed, is held high and blatantly displayed. Yet here it is horizontal and touching his lips. Moreover the other fingers and the thumb are only slightly flexed. Thus this "bird" is not classically displayed - but camouflaged and partial. The great majority of the time this variety of derogatory nonverbal emblem is performed subconsciously - and this is why it is referred to as a "Slip".


0:17

Partial Emblematic Slip

Vladimir is saying,
"F*cK You!"












An additional aspect of this display is that it's occurring over his mouth - thus the Russian President is not only flipping the bird, but he is also telling Fareed Zakaria to hush - or to be quiet. Mr. Putin does not want this question to be asked. Mr. Putin then corrected Mr. Zakaria - calling Donald Trump "a bright person" rather than "brilliant", "outstanding" or "talented".


0:20

Notice the sudden lateral displacement of Putin's lips to his right captured here (Please view the video to more fully appreciate the dynamics of this subset behavior).

Beneath the obscenity, this "Lateral Lip Purse" is momentarily letting us inside of Putin's Mind. Although Vladimir has anticipated this question regarding Trump - this signal is telling us he's in the process of deciding exactly how to answer. Typically the lateral lip purse shows us the decision is between two or sometimes three choices - rather than a multitude.


1:56

Here we see another tell - a "Loose Forward Lip Purse" mostly covered by Vladimir's finger.

A loose forward lip purse signals a covert plan and/or a clandestine disagreement. These are displayed by a person who perceives himself to be a relative alpha with respect to whomever they're interacting. They also believe they have a good chance of successfully executing their plan.

What body language display(s) tell us whether Putin's obscenity was directed at the person asking the question (Fareed Zakaria) or the subject of the question (Donald Trump) - or both?

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3593: What does Tulsi Gabbard think about Hillary Clinton?

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3571: Donald Trump to Debate Bernie Sanders? What Trump Feels about Bernie

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3553: Donald Trump, Deception, Facial Touching and Empathy

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3516: Hillary Clinton, Finger Pointing, Fossil Fuels, Bernie Sanders and Lying

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2896: Hillary Clinton - Vladimir Putin Bears Some Responsibility for the Downing of Malaysia Air Flight MH17

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3325: Vladimir Putin, the United Nations, Russian Soil and Confidence Levels

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3327: Chris Harper Mercer - School Shooter - Umpqua Community College near Roseburg, Oregon

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3488: Donald Trump Brags about the size of penis - but His Body Language Indicates Anxiety/Deception

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Saturday, June 18, 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3593: What does Tulsi Gabbard think about Hillary Clinton? - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)






In response to a question yesterday, Representative Tulsi Gabbard displayed an excellent example of a subtle microexpression of disgust.

Beginning at 0:16 in the above video segment, Wolf Blitzer asks, "So you - endorsing Hillary Clinton for the nomination? Are you - "

Tulsi Gabbard [over-talking]: "I'm not, I'm not prepared ..." [microexpression of disgust]

Blitzer: [over-talking] "Are you in her camp yet?"

Gabbard: "I'm not prepared to do that ..."

Just after the first occasion she says the word "prepared" (during 0:20), Rep. Gabbard displays a microexpression of disgust. The former vice-chair of the DNC, who resigned this post earlier this year in order to endorse Bernie Sanders is exhibiting the emotion of disgust at prospect of endorsing Secretary Clinton for President.

In addition to her disgust displayed via the microexpression, Tulsi's coexisting increased frequency and prolonged duration of her blinking - along with her head-neck-torso retraction are disgust amplifiers.




























Of course this is but one of the many nonverbal displays seen in this short video. What other significant body language signals did you see?

This website serves as an objective reference source for the science and art of Body Language/Nonverbal Communication. In an effort to be both practical and academic, many examples from/of varied cultures, politicians, professional athletes, legal cases, public figures, etc., are cited in order to teach and illustrate both the interpretation of others’ body language as well as the projection of one’s own nonverbal skills in many different contexts – not to advance any political, religious or other agenda.  



See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3592: Gary Johnson, The Libertarian Party and Beta Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3580: Muhammad Ali, Donald Trump, Repulsion and Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3574: Selena Gomez's Body Language Reaction to Fans in Montreal 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3531: Helen Mirren, Subways, Sincerity, Empathy and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3510: Lindsey Graham - The Senator Picks His Poison: Ted Cruz vs. Donald Trump

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3500: Gal Gadot's last name used to be "Greenstein" 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3385: Adele, "Hello" and SNL

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3362: Marco Rubio and Alleged Misuse of State Party Credit Card

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3592: Gary Johnson, The Libertarian Party and Beta Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)





Gary Johnson, the 2016 Libertarian Candidate for President is featured in the above video with Erin Burnett. During the interview, whenever the camera pans out to a wider angle, we can see that the former Governor of New Mexico is wearing his Nike's.

Now if he were campaigning at a state fair or baseball game, it would be very contextual for Governor Johnson to wear athletic shoes - if he also had on jeans and a casual shirt. But in the CNN studio while wearing a suit and tie, he never should have on these shoes. We all like comfort, but appearing in such footwear with a suit during an interview in NO WAY projects presidential power. It is possible that Gov. Johnson was told or believed that the camera would only include his head and torso - yet this two term governor is not a political rookie and should never had made such a mistake. In addition, he should also know that such a casual off-camera persona directly affects the manner in which anyone - including how news professionals will treat him.


Notice also that Gov. Johnson's ankles are crossed. If we were to ask him about this he'd probably say, "Well this was comfortable" - or something similar. Yet with respect to nonverbal communication, in order for one to be physically comfortable, they must first be emotionally comfortable. This is a significantly Beta Body Language configuration. It projects a lower confidence level and tentativeness. Moreover, if alternatively he would have had one foot resting on each of two adjacent legs - along with leaning and sitting slightly forward in his chair - it would have not only looked more action-oriented, confident, strong and assertive, but such body language would have also increased his confidence level along with engendering both the fluidity of the candidate's thinking as well as his speaking (which certainly helps when you're being interviewed on national TV).



Beginning at 4:33, Johnson says, "Well one of my sssstrengths isss that I, I tell the truth ..."

Note the candidate's excessive stuttering during his declaration of honesty. This is a red flag of low confidence, anxiety - and in this context it's highly consistent with deception.

This image was captured during the last moment of him uttering, "truth" - yet Governor Johnson's eyes open very widely along with him elevating the entire width of his forehead. This is the nonverbal equivalent of a person using five exclamation marks when, in moments of sincerity, only one is needed. It's a very common body language example of over-compensatory behavior. Unbeknownst to most politicians and high-level sales professionals this sends signals of INsincerity. It destroys rapport rather than building it.


During a significant fraction of this interview, Gary Johnson has his hands positioned on his lap with the majority of them below the level of the desk. This is a major nonverbal faux pas. At the very least it transmits lower confidence levels and relative timidity. Depending on the other nonverbals with which it is clustered, this can also be indicative of deception. Never commit this error during a job interview - or when you're running for president.

These are just a few of the body language fumbles Gary Johnson made during this television appearance. If the Governor wants to poll above 15 percent - thus allowing him to participate in the debates with Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump - he simply can't afford to make these rookie mistakes.

This website serves as an objective reference source for the science and art of Body Language/Nonverbal Communication. In an effort to be both practical and academic, many examples from/of varied cultures, politicians, professional athletes, legal cases, public figures, etc., are cited in order to teach and illustrate both the interpretation of others’ body language as well as the projection of one’s own nonverbal skills in many different contexts – not to advance any political, religious or other agenda.


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3591: Jo Cox, The Brexit and Sincere Smiles - Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3587: The Orlando Mass Shooting, Omar Mateen and Warning Signs

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3446: Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3412: Affluenza Teen Ethan Couch is on the Run

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3381: Ariana Grande, Flirtatious Body Language and the American Music Awards 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3355: Spin the Microphone on Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show - Gwen Stefani is very attracted to Blake Shelton

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3583: Donald Trump, Reaching out to Bernie Sanders' Supporters and Insincerity Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3581: Hillary Clinton, Likability and Body Language

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