Body Language Analysis No. 4260: James Comey on Good Morning America re: Trump, Russia, and the Steele Dossier - Nonverbal and Emotional Intelligence (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

James Comey's interview with George Stephanopoulos will be aired on Sunday night - however, a small portion of it was shown on Friday on Good Morning America. What follows is a nonverbal analysis.

GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS (beginning at 1:49): You also said you were struck by what they didn't ask.

JAMES COMEY: Very much. No one, to my recollection asked, "So what, what's coming next from the Russians? How might we stop it? What's the future look like?" It was all - "What can we say about what they did and how it affects the election that we just had" Ω.

During 1:53, James Comey's right eyebrow and forehead elevate as he said, 'No one'.

Unilateral forehead/eyebrow elevation is a classic display of Disbelief. Mr. Comey is, to a degree, reliving the experience of the meeting with Donald Trump - and he's incredulous as to the lack of the President-Elect's response (along with his staff) to Russian interference in the 2016 US Presidential Election. This moment of emotion is captured in the image immediately above (Please watch the video, as the still photo doesn't fully capture the nature of this dynamic).

During 2:08, as he finishes his sentence ("... It was all - "What can we say about what they did and how it affects the election that we just had"), and just as the camera fades away, Mr. Comey displays another classic expression - this one of Contempt combined with Disgust (shown in the image immediately above and notated by the Ω symbol).

Summary: Upon nonverbal analysis of the video segment included above, the sincerity quotient of the former FBI Director is high. More specifically, at no time in this interview was James Comey being deceptive. He's being truthful.

Additionally, James Comey expresses contempt, disgust, and disbelief toward then President-elect Trump.


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See also:

Body Language Analysis No. 4259: Vladimir Putin and Bashar al-Assad 

Body Language Analysis No. 4257: Mark Zuckerberg Testifies Before The Senate

Body Language Analysis No. 4255: Roger Stone and Julian Assange

Body Language Analysis No. 4253: Tiger Woods at The 2018 Masters - Nonverbal Biofeedback, Sport psychology, and Emotional Intelligence

Body Language Analysis No. 4249: Will Smith, Sophia the Robot, Robot-Empathy, and Responding in Context

Body Language Analysis No. 4246: Former senior KGB spy - says he was warned that Sergei Skripal and his daughter were in danger

Body Language Analysis No. 4206: Mike Pence regarding John Kelly's Handling of Rob Porter

Body Language Analysis No. 4138: Matt Lauer, Intimidation, and Aggression

Body Language Analysis No. 4055: What Does Jessica Chastain Feel For Matt Damon?

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

Donald Trump is of course known for what many would call extreme statements. These alpha and hyper-alpha verbal messages coexist with similar magnitude paralanguage (e.g., vocal qualities) and body language.

The images included here however, are nonverbal examples of what are known as "Alpha-Beta Hybrids" (of which there are many). While these hand gestures are still alpha in their emotional tone (dominant, aggressive, assertive) - they're significantly muted by the flexion of Trump's forefinger (index finger). This is to Trump's advantage (or Clinton's or Sanders', etc.) as it projects these same alpha qualities while avoiding being overly aggressive.

Hyper-alpha behavior (of all types) will solidify one's political base but has a strong tendency to alienate undecided voters.

Of these two examples the one above is a bit more beta because of the modest palm-up orientation while plane of the hand of the configuration shown below is more vertical - and thus a bit more alpha.

Although this particular nonverbal display wasn't "invented" by Donald Trump - it's relatively rare and few others currently use it. Because of Trump's success to date, there's little doubt that in the future other politicians will use this gesture more frequently. 

As the general election draws nearer and the two party "leaders" have been chosen, it's very typical (though not universal) for the candidates (in pursuing the independent voters) to use less extreme nonverbal behavior.

This website serves as a reference source for the art and science of Body Language/Nonverbal Communication. The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the author. 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 3550: Robert Downey Jr. Auditions Jimmy Fallon

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3545: Eric Trump's Reaction to President Obama's Comments at the 2016 White House Correspondents' Dinner

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3028: Chris Rock's (and other Comedians) Body Language Trick that Gets You Laughing Easier  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3025: Vladimir Putin, Alpha Hand Signals and "The Claw"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3164: Johnny Depp's portrayal of Whitey Bulger in "Black Mass" trailer

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3221: Gov. Nikki Haley Choking Back Tears - was She Sincere?

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3419: George Pataki, Asymmetry, Trust and Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

And then there were twelve.

George Pataki ended his campaign for president of the United States today. From a body language perspective, the former Governor of New York has an idiosyncrasy which works against him. He speaks chronically out of the side of his mouth.

Normally when a person speaks with such mouth asymmetry, it is temporary. Depending on the other nonverbals and paralanguage with which it is clustered, such speaking out of the side of one's mouth can be a signal of bravado or acquiescence/resignation (and medical causes such as stroke and Facial Nerve Palsy must be excluded). Yet this is not the what accounts for the majority of this nonverbal mouth pattern.





















The human psyche is hard-wired to interpret this asymmetrical mouth configuration as dishonest. And while this facial appearance is by no means 100% indicative of deception (e.g., the above causes must be ruled-out) - there is a relatively high correlation with lying and insincerity while speaking out of the "corner of the mouth".

Yet for Governor Pataki, this is simply an idiosyncrasy. Of course, every politician lies - it's just that with Pataki, we cannot and should not use this particular signal when it comes to nonverbal deception detection. Nor should we use it to discern any bravado or acquiescent behavior (even though of course, he is withdrawing from the race today). He certainly experiences all of these thought-emotions, but we just can't use this sign to suss him out. Fortunately there area many other nonverbal tools we may use.

If George were to hop in his DeLorean and go back to 1985 however, he'd be well-advised to "unlearn" this facial habit - for it's profoundly important to emphasize that this certainly does NOT engender trust or sincerity.


 



See also:

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. 3416: LeBron James Catches a Golden State Fan "calling" him a Cry Baby - Body Language

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. 3402: UFC 194: Conor McGregor and José Aldo - Octagon Post Fight Interview

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3352: Donald Trump's Contradictory Body Language

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret No. 1267: John McCain, Sarah Palin and Bell's Palsy 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3142: Mike Pence - Governor of Indiana interview with George Stephanopoulos & the Religious Freedom Restoration Act - What Makes Gov. Pence Look Worse? 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3332: Ben Carson's New Book Cover is a Rapport Destroyer - Body Language (PHOTOS)

No doubt Ben Carson, or someone/group which supports his candidacy paid a professional $50,000 dollars or thereabouts to photograph him for his new book (A More Perfect Union - published today). Photographic skills aside, with regards to judgement - this was a quite amateurish and very poor choice for the cover - particularly when the goal is to win Carson the White House.

Carson's "smile" is not a smile at all - far from it - and most importantly it does not signal sincerity. Moreover his facial expression has components impatience as well as subtle contempt. The position of Carson's hand will (erroneously) suggest to some the emotion of boredom - which of course is never a good quality for a candidate. Yet together with these facial nonverbals, his specific hand configuration is projecting (rather significantly) the emotions of critical evaluation and dismissal. 

Dr. Carson's left arm, across his chest with his palm resting on his right bicep - projects a closed mind (an example of blocking behavior) and an emotional tone of impatience.

In addition, in this day of high-definition video and images, most everyone senses this picture was photo shopped. If you show us your blemishes and imperfections, we will bond with you (for we have them too) - but if you hide them (and we see you pretending) you will push us away. 

The next you're negotiating (or trying to make a sale) - never try to close if your opposition (or customer) takes on this body language. Ben Carson's nonverbal behavior on his new book cover will destroy rapport, not built it. It will cost him votes, not win them.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3331: Mila finds out Adam Levine got married - Rapid Transitioning of Emotions

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3311: Ben Carson to Donald Trump - "He's an Okay Doctor" - Trump's Body Language Faux Pas

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3316: Ben Carson does not think that a Muslim Should be President - Is He Sincere - or Mimicking Trump's Tactics?

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3317: Scott Walker Drops Out of Presidential Race - A Classic Body Language Tell

 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3315: Carly Fiorina, John Kasich and the Ten Dollar Bill - Republican Debate Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

During the most recent republican presidential debate, when asked what woman they would like to see on ten dollar bill, many of the candidates answers' betrayed the fact they were not well-thought on history and American women in particular.

From a nonverbal perspective the above video segment showcases several microexpressions, two of which are discussed here.



















Captured during 0:03, in this image we can see Carly Fiorina displaying a classic microexpression of contempt as she says the word "... honestly ..."

Ms. Fiorina's nonverbal, verbal and paralanguage were all highly congruent - thus indicating her answer to this question was very sincere.

Later in this same segment (this image during 0:32), Ohio Governor John Kasich displays several microexpressions of fear (with his mouth and neck). This one is a fraction of a second after he says, "... Teresa ..."

Mr. Kasich knew that although most people think as highly for Mother Teresa as he does - he also knew that his answer was not the best one since, of course, she wasn't an American. Did you catch his other microexpressions?

What do Governor Chris Christie's facial expressions tell us?

As with all microexpressions, the dynamic context of video is far superior vs. still photos. Please view the video (and perhaps slow it down to 1/2 or 1/4 speed) to fully appreciate these very short-lived but crucial body language tells.

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. 3314: Donald Trump's Town Hall Q & A in New Hampshire - Fails to Correct Questioner re: President Obama's Religion and Nationality

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3121: Barack Obama and George W. Bush at the 50th Anniversary of the First Selma-to-Montgomery March 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3259: Barack Obama responds to Mike Huckabee's Holocaust Reference 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3253: John Kasich Formally Announces His Candidacy for President 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3310: Carly Fiorina's response to Donald Trump's, "Look at that Face!"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2338:  Why Does Keit Pentus-Rosimannus feel Fear?  Body Language of Estonia's Minister of Environment 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3198: Sepp Blatter, FIFA, Subtle Fear & Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2916: Rory McIlroy, the PGA Championship and Body Language of Self-Contempt
   
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3299: Kim Davis, Contempt-of-Court, Same-Sex Marriages and Body Language 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3312: Carly Fiorina's Retort to Trump - Best Moment of the Debate - Body Language Tells (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

In what many regard as Carly Fiorina's best moment from the second Republican Presidential Primary debate (last night) - the former HP CEO was asked by CNN's Jake Tapper, "... In an interview last week in "Rolling Stone Magazine", Donald Trump said the following about you: 'Look at that face. Would anyone vote for that? Can you imagine that, the face of our next president?' Mr. Trump later said he was talking about your persona, not your appearance. Please feel free to respond what you think about HIS persona."

Ms. Fiorina answers, "You know it's interesting to me - Mr. Trump said that he heard Mr. Bush very clearly, and what Mr. Bush said. I think women all over this country heard very clearly what Mr. Trump said."

After an uncomfortable huge applause and long pause (13 seconds) - Trump responds, "I think she's got a beautiful face and I think she's a beautiful woman."

Despite it only being a 53 second segment, this video has multiple body language teaching moments. One in particular however encapsulates emotions of the moment more than any other. It's captured below during the 0:42 mark.

Throughout a good portion of this exchange, Ms. Fiorina has what many would describe as a stoic face. From a nonverbal perspective, what it indicates specifically though is her subtle-to-mild expression (and thus emotion) of disgust. She maintains this expression longer than most people could in such a scenario. Her doing so in this context projects tenaciousness, determination - and therefore a leadership-strength. Trump changes the orientation of his head/neck, direction of gaze and his torso. While Donald wavers - Carly is unwavering. This contrast alone speaks volumes.

Moreover Trump's expression in this same moment is one of an INsincere smile - what is known as a "Bitter Smile". While attempting to look amused, his primary emotion in this moment is regret. And although he has a ruddy complexion, in this instant it's a bit more reddened - and together with a clenched and thrusting jaw and dimpled chin betrays his accompanying feelings of anger.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3311: Ben Carson to Donald Trump - "He's an Okay Doctor" - Trump's Body Language Faux Pas

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3310: Carly Fiorina's response to Donald Trump's, "Look at that Face!"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3141: Carly Fiorina "Higher than 90%" Chances She's Running for President

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2640: Disgust at Denver area School Shooting - Body Language Tells 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2443:  Kristen Wiig's Disgust & Fear Face -  Graham Norton, Chris O'Dowd and Fly Eating  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3264: Hillary Clinton, Likability, Perceived Trustworthiness and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3309: Delta State University Shooting (Mississippi) Suspect Shannon Lamb - Body Language Red Flags
 
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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3310: Carly Fiorina's response to Donald Trump's, "Look at that Face!" - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Earlier this month Rolling Stone magazine quoted Donald Trump speaking disparagingly about Carly Fiorina, "Look at that face! Would anyone vote for that? Can you imagine that, the face of our next president? I mean, she's a woman, and I'm not s'posedta say bad things, but really, folks, come on. Are we serious?"

Carly fought back though - or rather her super PAC - "Carly for America" - did so. The above video - titled, "Look at this Face" is the ad they released just yesterday. One nonverbal display is particularly noteworthy here.

At multiple times when Ms. Fiorina is shown in this video she is displaying a fairly vigorous "Self-Righteous Head Wiggle" (SRHW).

The characteristics of the self-righteous head wiggle include:

• A side-to-side movement of the head & neck
• Displayed by a person who has very strong opinions about a specific opinion
• Often feels they've been personally attacked in some way
• Relatively high frequency (speed the is head moving back and forth) - although this may vary
• Amplitude is variable (the amount the head & neck are moving)
• May be of varying duration (microexpression or lasting for several seconds)
• May be isolated or in occurring in clusters
• May have a similar jaw movement component (and sometimes jaw movement is all that's displayed)
• May have a similar movement of the torso or abdomen (also sometimes exhibited in isolation)
• Displayed by an alpha personality or one who believes they are an alpha
• Often seen in a hierarchical setting (e.g. a speaker or "leader" on stage or on camera)
• Accompanied by self-assured emotional vocal tones
• Often the vocal pitch, volume and speed of speech all increase simultaneous with the SRHW
• May have a forward-vectoring additional component (indicating contempt, disgust or incredulity) 
• May have a backward-vectoring component too (indicates arrogance and condescending emotions)

The self-righteous head wiggle is a good example of a body language which must be viewed in the dynamic context of a video - for it's impossible to capture the gist in a video.

Thus in this example Carly Fiorina's display of the Self-Righteous Head Wiggle, is completely normal-for-context and very congruent with her verbal message as well as her vocal qualities. This trifecta (verbal, nonverbal and paralanguage all in agreement - indicates a high sincerity quotient.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3309: Delta State University Shooting (Mississippi) Suspect Shannon Lamb - Body Language Red Flags

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3075: Franklin Graham (Billy Graham's son) Blasts Duke University for Muslim "Call to Prayer"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3263: Barack Obama on Jon Stewart's "The Daily Show" - The Sarcastic Bobble Body Language 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3275: Carly Fiorina, The Republican Debate and Likability (or not) 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3297: 70th Anniversary of the End of World War II - Height, Intimidation and Surrender on the Mighty Mo'

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3255: Donald Trump and a Body Language Signal of Social Fear and Hesitancy  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3271: Donald Trump, Smiling out of Context and Running as an Independent
 
 
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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3285: Donald Trump Dialing Up His Alpha - Body Language (PHOTOS)

As with all alpha personalities, there are times when Donald Trump feels as if he needs more assertiveness. Here the 2016 republican poll-leading presidential candidate is shown adjusting his left shirt cuff. The vast majority of the time the cuff is already in place though and there's no real need for this grooming maneuver - rather it's a nonverbal epiphenomenon of his emotional status. This "False Cuff Adjust" indicates that Trump's psyche is attempting to up-regulate his alpha qualities. He recognizes, largely on a subconscious level, that he needs to dial-up his self-confidence.

This Body Language Tell is displayed more often in men than women and with greater frequency in individuals from higher socioeconomic levels vs. those with less financial means. Those who are raised in more modest means tend to adjust their watches rather than shirt cuffs in such scenarios.


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3284: Eat Your Effin Vees with Jimmy Kimmel and First Lady Michelle Obama

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3255: Donald Trump and a Body Language Signal of Social Fear and Hesitancy 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3250: Donald Trump regarding John McCain: "He's no hero" - Body Language Tells us what he really thinks 

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret No. 1459: Geithner Gets His Alpha On  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2914: François Hollande, Anxiety and Dialing up his Alpha

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3046: Chris Pine Dials Up His Alpha - "Into the Woods"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2314:  Naomi Watts Pre-Oscar Interview and her  Body Language of the "Jaw Confessional" and the Sincerity Quotient

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3277: John Kasich reflecting on Debate - Body Language Tells (VIDEO, PHOTO)

John Kasich gave this post-debate interview earlier this week. Governor Kasich did well in the debate and has subsequently climbed significantly in the polls. One question some critics felt he did not go into sufficient detail on however, was the issue of illegal immigration and how his views compared to Donald Trump's hardline.

Chris Wallace once again asks the Ohio governor - and specifically regarding building a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. At multiple times Governor Kasich displays microexpressions of fear. One of these moments is captured in the image below (during 2:29). Take notice his "Mouth of Fear" - with the corners very briefly pulled down and laterally. What is less noticed by most and rarely ever discussed is his simultaneous "Neck of Fear" - with a tightening and tenting-up of the neck muscles. Please watch the interview above as these fear signals (and most nonverbals) are much better exampled via the dynamic context of a video.

These crucial body language displays tell us Governor Kasich has trepidation regarding immigration reform - for although taking a firmer stance here may help him win the Republican nomination - it may also cost him in the general election.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3276: Word Blurt with Kristen Stewart & Jimmy Fallon

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3253: John Kasich Formally Announces His Candidacy for President

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3270: Trump at 1st Republican Debate - Donald's Body Language Shows His Cards

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3272: Donald Trump, Megyn Kelly, Deception and Misogyny 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3198: Sepp Blatter, FIFA, Subtle Fear & Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3165: Bruce Jenner's 20/20 Interview, Part I

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3258: Hillary Clinton speaks out on "inaccuracies" of private email controversy 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3275: Carly Fiorina, The Republican Debate and Likability (or not) – Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Carly Fiorina has climbed in the polls and Donald Trump has fallen. According to Rasmussen the former HP CEO has increased her share of the polling pie to 9%. She is clustered with Governor Scott Walker who's also poling at 9% - and just behind Governor Jeb Bush and Senator Marco Rubio who are both at 10%. Donald Trump has slipped significantly to 17%.

Yet from a body language perspective, Ms. Fiorina is far from where she needs to be. Although there are several mistakes exampled in this short video segment, one very common one seen here is a complete lack of the use of her arms and hands.

In nonverbal parlance many of hand and arm gestures are examples of what are termed "illustrators" - for they emphasize, highlight and add flavor to our verbal language. And while illustrators certainly may be displayed too frequently, too dramatically, overly aggressively (hyper-alpha displays such as Mr. Trump) or not congruently with the simultaneous-clustered paralanguage and verbal messages - using them minimally or not at all, will almost always project a lower confidence and diminished assertiveness.

What many people don't realize is that lack of/low illustrator use results in other over-compensatory behaviors (How is Carly overcompensating here?).

Also, when hands are hiding behind, blocked by or resting too long on a lectern (or below a table, a witness stand barrier, etc.) human beings will subconsciously assign less trustworthiness to the speaker. Simply put, if we cannot see your hands we tend to think you're less honest.

Quality and nuanced hand and arm illustrators will also send signals of likability and improve rapport (as well as decrease unfavorables and increase her favorables). These behaviors must never be or look as if they're forced or cliché in nature - lest the audience will feel the insincerity and such acting will backfire. By improving her nonverbal skills, Ms. Fiorina will further leverage her verbal prowess and climb higher in the polls. If so, come November 2016, we could very well have two women running for the White House. 

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3274: Chris Christie, Rand Paul, The Republican Debate and National Security

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3272: Donald Trump, Megyn Kelly, Deception and Misogyny 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2016: Hillary Clinton, Roosevelt Island, Building Rapport and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3060: Bradley Cooper, Air Guitar, Neil Young & the R2E2 Expression 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2818: The Caring Hand, Palms Up and Building Rapport

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2977: Raven-Symoné: "I'm Tired of Being Labeled" - Interview with Oprah

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2952: Kmart's "Not a Christmas Commercial" - No Place for Arrogance
 
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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3274: Chris Christie, Rand Paul, The Republican Debate and National Security - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

At the Republican Debate last Thursday, Chris Christie and Rand Paul sparred on issue of balancing national security vs. American civil liberties. Mr. Paul didn't like it when Mr. Christie made his Senate Subcommittee responsibility sounded like he was playing in a sandbox. And the New Jersey Governor didn't like it when the Kentucky Senator reminded the American voters of him hugging President Obama in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Between the two of them however, Chris Christie is much less skilled at camouflaging his anger.

The image below was captured at the 3:01 mark just after Paul references Christie and Obama embracing. Although the resolution is not optimal here, this cluster of nonverbal signs is easily seen:

• Inner (medial) eyebrows directed downward
• Partial closure of the eyelids
• Lower lid tension
• Flaring of the nostril
• Tense "mustache area"
• Evanescent thinning of the lips
• Horizontal configuration of the lips
• Clenching of the Jaw and its muscles (An excellent example displayed a second earlier at 3:00)

Going a step further, the ability to recognize the nuances of one's own anger signals - as anger crescendos (and hopefully very early in this process) - then responding by modifying the nonverbal response - is of profound practical value - for it is truly a form of biofeedback. Those who are skilled at this use their emotions to their advantage - rather than reacting to them. It puts them in the driver's seat.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3273: Marco Rubio, The Republican Debate, Monotonous Body Language and Anxiety

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2674: Did Chris Christie Orchestrate Bridge Closure or Cover Up His Subordinates Actions? Body Language Tells Us ....

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2676: Nancy Pelosi, Chris Christie, Bling and a Handkerchief 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2174:  President Obama, Hurricane Sandy,  Body Language and Thumbs Backwards Arms Akimbo

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2930: Rand Paul and "Likability" - Building vs. Destroying It

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3150: Rand Paul Announces His Candidacy for Presidency of United States - Body Language Truth Check 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3233: Chris Christie formally enters the 2016 Presidential Race - What about his Body Language?

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3273: Marco Rubio, The Republican Debate, Monotonous Body Language and Anxiety (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

It's often been noted that Marco Rubio is a bit more nervous than many would expect for a U.S. Senator - and particularly during higher priority televised events. You may recall Senator Rubio gave the Republican response to President Obama's State of the Union Address in 2013. In this retort his throat grew dry and he took a gulp of water. This is not surprising however - for public speaking (especially with the incredible spotlight of a national and even World stage) is an extremely common anxiety evoking activity. Indeed many rate speaking before an audience at near the top of all feared events. Some people would even prefer death to giving a speech.

During the Republican debate last Thursday, Rubio responded to a question regarding illegal immigration with repeated, fairly monotonous variations of the same nonverbal illustrator. With some mild variations, the Florida Senator used the index finger-to-thumb pinch-point with his right (dominant hand) during his entire response (except at the very end - once his time had expired).

Pinch-Point Forward

This is a more aggressive, more polarizing, hyper-authoritative nonverbal and should never be used for too long a duration (only a few seconds when driving home a crucial issue).

A person displaying the forward pinch-point - and in a tight fashion as Senator Rubio is here, indicates a higher level of anxiety.

The downward pinch-point is also high on the scale of both an anxiety indicator as well as signaling both aggressiveness and authoritativeness.

Hand tension is highly correlative with facial tension.

This pinch-point is more loosely-held and indicates a reduction of the Senator's stress. Accordingly we can see his face shows less tension as well. 

Here - we see a brief "Loose Fist Thumbs-up". It's almost a "Politician's Point" - and is a more relaxed illustrator as well (The thumb is not pinching against the forefinger [index finger], but they are momentarily forming a circle).

In this moment, all five digits come together - in a loose pinch - and importantly, the palm is turned upward.

Palm-up displays generate more rapport and indicate less anxiety.

Senator Rubio is saved by the bell - for it's not until it rings that Marco uses his left hand in this answer. During this entire response it was griping the lectern. The monotonous use of only one arm/hand is a sure signal of anxiety - moreover it has projects less confidence, diminishes trust and significantly reduces the ability to influence others.

Knowing his time is up - at least until he gets another question - Senator Rubio's anxiety drops, he loosens-up his body language and his left hand comes out of hiding. The increased distance Rubio's arms are from his torso in this last moment are also very telling for his momentary heightened confidence.

Notice how relaxed Rubio's face has become - and of course his hands, arms and shoulders are as well. Always remember this control mechanism - lowering the tension in your upper limbs will reduce your nervousness. Senator Rubio would be well-advised to practice more relaxed and fluid arm-hand gestures (yet such nonverbals must ALWAYS congruent). Not only will this project more confidence and build greater rapport (ergo votes) - but it will also have the added benefit of down-regulating the Senator's anxiety level via a user-friendly feedback loop.


See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3272: Donald Trump, Megyn Kelly, Deception and Misogyny

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2215:  Paul Ryan and Marco Rubio Joke and Hint regarding the  2016 Presidential Race - "Tongue-in-Cheek" Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3154: Marco Rubio announces his Candidacy for President - Body Language Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2295:  Marco Rubio - Three Magazine Covers  Three Different Body Language Signals

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret No. 1209:  Even Putin has Anxiety -  False Tie Adjust 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2408:  Sen. Kelly Ayotte's Anxiety & Regret via  Senators Graham & McCain -  Republican Body Language in Response to  President Obama's National Defense University Speech

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3200: Martin O'Malley announces Candidacy for 2016 Presidential Race - Body Language of Emotional Processing 
 
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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3270: Trump at 1st Republican Debate - Donald's Body Language Shows His Cards (VIDEO, PHOTO)

A reminder: 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.

Tonight was the first Presidential debate of the 2016 campaign cycle. Debates always have a tremendous amount of nonverbal material to analyze - and Republicans surely proved this in Cleveland. One profoundly important body language tell is highlighted below.

Many are very interested in chinks in the armor of the front runner. Donald Trump has more than a few and his body language betrayed him multiple times on the stage this evening. In the video clip included above, Moderator Chris Wallace asked Mr. Trump, ".... ah, it has not escaped anybody's notice that you say that the Mexican government, the Mexican government is sending criminals, rapists, drug dealers across the border. Governor Bush has called those remarks, 'Extraordinarily ugly'. I'd like you, you're right next to 'em, tell us, talk to him directly - and say how you respond to that - and, and you have repeatedly said that you have evidence that the Mexican government is doing this, but you have evidence, evidence you have refused or declined to share. Why not use this first Republican Presidential Debate to share your proof with the American people."

Like many a politician, Mr. Trump never answered the question. Mr. Wallace then asked the once again and Donald answered, "Border patrol, I was at the border last week. Border patrol people that I deal with, that I talk to, they say, 'This is what's happening'. Because our leaders are stupid, our politicians are stupid - and the Mexican government is much smarter, much sharper, much more cunning - and they send the bad ones over because they don't want to pay for 'em, they don't wanna take care of 'em. Why should they when the stupid leaders of the United States will do it for them? And that's what's happening whether you like it or not."

Immediately after his last word - "not", Mr. Trump inhales deeply, elevates and hunches his shoulders (his right side more so) - as he displays a clear microexpression of fear - showing both a classic "mouth of fear" as well as a less dramatic (and rarely noticed) "neck of fear". The three images below are all captured in rapid sequence during the 2:29 segment - all within 0.20 seconds.

Donald Trump clearly knows that his answer contained anything resembling "evidence". He knows he has painted himself into a political corner with his earlier statement and he fears the repercussions. This nonverbal cluster is a strong signal of deception.

Because Trump feels a very real visceral fear with this lie, his opponents would be well advised to attack him on this specific issue. In his fear he will make other mistakes.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3269: Context, Head Shaking and Hoverboards

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3257: Donald Trump at the Texas-Mexico Border - Body Language of a Hyper-Alpha

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3218: Jeb Bush Formally Announces His Candidacy for President 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3245: Gov. Scott Walker Jumps into the 2016 Presidential Race - Body Language Amplifiers and Misdirection 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3253: John Kasich Formally Announces His Candidacy for President

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3078: Tom Brady, Deflategate, Deception and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3165: Bruce Jenner's 20/20 Interview, Part I

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3135: Ariana Grande Does a Spot-On Celine Dion Impression on Jimmy Fallon - Body Language Signals of ....
 
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