Body Language Analysis No. 4184: Why Does Donald Trump Point So Often? • Nonverbal and Emotional Intelligence (PHOTOS)

Why does Donald Trump point so frequently?

Forefinger finger (Index finger) pointing is offensive in all countries and across all ethnicities. Such practice should be highly discouraged in all but the rarest circumstances. 

Whenever a politician is choosing a journalist for a question, too often they will point with their index finger. But, alternatively, and far superior to forefinger pointing, would be using all the four fingers and the thumb, with one's palm facing upward, the arm partially extended - such that the wrist, elbow, shoulders - and finger joints are all relaxed. Pointing in this palms-up fashion is rapport building, while index finger pointing is rapport destroying.

But most of President Trump's pointing fits entirely into another type of behavior.

Does it raise your flag when a person - who doesn't know you very well - uses words such as: "We", "Our", "Us", "Let's", etc.? It should. This fits into a type of behavior known as "Forced Teaming" (de Becker) and it's a common technique of manipulative individuals. In scenarios which are out of context to mutual familiarity and/or agreement, such verbal forced teaming is an attempt at making you feel as if you belong to the same clan, team, etc. If you're part of any group/belief system, then you'll be significantly more likely to follow established rules/orders - and much more apt to be manipulated.

If you know what to look for, you'll also spot concomitant paralanguage and nonverbal forced teaming analogs.

Donald Trump frequently points to a random person in a crowd, a member of Congress, or his cabinet. When he does so, it's a body language form of forced teaming. It makes the other person feel as if the president temporarily raises them to the level of a peer - even if they literally and logically know it's not actually true. This makes it significantly more difficult to say, "no" to him - and much more likely that he'll be successful at winning others over to his way of thinking.

Summary: Donald Trump's frequent pointing is a common manipulative technique of nonverbal forced teaming.


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See also:

Body Language Analysis No. 4183: Aly Raisman, Larry Nassar, and USA Gymnastics

Body Language Analysis No. 4181: Ann Curry, Matt Lauer, "Verbal Sexual" Harassment, and NBC • Interview

Body Language Analysis No. 4179: Senator Dick Durbin questions Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen

Body Language Analysis No. 4177: DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen regarding Donald Trump's "Shithole Countries"

Body Language Analysis No. 4166: Logan Paul's Apology

Body Language Analysis No. 4159: Nikki Haley, Jerusalem, and the United Nations

Body Language Analysis No. 4149: Zendaya, Zac Efron, and "The Greatest Showman"

Body Language Analysis No. 4136: Seminole Heights/Tampa Florida Serial Killer - Criminal Profiling

Body Language Analysis No. 4090: Harvey Weinstein, Sexual Assault, and Impulse Control Disorder


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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. 3289: Jorge Ramos, Donald Trump Event, "Get Out of My Country" and De-Escalation - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Yesterday, just after Donald Trump told him to, "Go back to Univison!", Jorge Ramos was forcibly removed from the republican candidate's press conference (He was allowed back in after a few minutes). Subsequently, Mr. Ramos also had an interesting encounter with a man in the hallway. From a body language perspective, this incident provides an interesting example in escalation vs. de-escalation.

After this Trump supporter said, "You were very rude. It's not about you. Get out of my country! Get out!"

(over-lapping dialog)

Mr. Ramos responds, "It's not about [inaudible]. This is not, I'm a, I'm a U.S. citizen."

Trump supporter, "Well, whatever. No, Univision, no!" His palms are then held outward - toward Mr. Ramos. As this is used here, this palms-out illustrator is aggressive and confrontational. He is drawing a metaphorical line in the sand and daring Jorge Ramos to cross it (escalating). Mr. Ramos declines. 

With regards to de-escalation, Mr. Ramos's only mistake was walking toward the other man (escalating). Although he did so with a calm vocal tone, a lower vocal volume than his confronter - and he had his arms clasped behind his back the entire time - all De-escalating (while this is not directly visible, if you view the video carefully you will see this indirectly and that his visible arm and shoulder positions don't change during the entire confrontation). This behind the back hands clasp is a great alpha-beta hybrid in this situation - for it projects a significant strength of confidence and yet it is non-confrontational (De-escalating).

From a nonverbal point-of-view in this scenario, hands clasped (loosely) behind the back says, "I am strong, I am confident and I don't have to be battle-ready" - De-escalating. (Conversely, most people have their hands in front, held high and/or in fists - which escalates the tension and likelihood of a fight - escalating).. Of course it does place Mr. Ramos at a disadvantage if the other man were to hit first (For this reason, law enforcement personnel rarely hold their hands behind their back in such a manner, even when off-duty - although in certain circumstances they should consider it).

Mr. Ramos also turned his head down and away - after initial more direct eye contact (De-escalating). The other man kept a much more direct eye contact with a very low rate of blinking - indicative of his anger, high adrenaline and near-fight-mode (escalating).

When he begins to point, the Trump supporter initially points to Mr. Ramos's chest (escalating).

The other man has a mixture of anger (obvious to most) - yet also contempt and disgust. This triple threat is a dangerous combination - for it carries with it a significantly elevated risk of loss-of-temper and subsequent physical altercation (escalating).

Then quickly he uses this same index finger point (forefinger) to point at Jorge's face. The law enforcement officer senses this escalation and moves in between the men and verbally interjects. This is a profoundly escalating gesture.

An index finger point is a highly offensive and inflammatory nonverbal display. This is true across every single culture on the planet.

Here we can see the index finger persisting, even as Mr. Ramos is walking away.

We can see here Jorge's arms behind his back. Importantly, his gate (his walk) is also not confrontational - but meandering and slower, with a significant side-to-side motion (De-escalation).



See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3288: Donald Trump & Jorge Ramos - "Go back to Univision"

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2584: Darnell Barton - Hero with Body Language of De-Escalation

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2991: Gavin Siem flags down Grant County Deputy Dustin Canfield 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2993: Fight in Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport - Passengers Break Up Homophobic Attack - Threat Assessment Warning Signs 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3231: Jeb Bush just prior to the Announcement of his Candidacy - What his Body Language Tells Us (PHOTO)

This image of Jeb Bush was captured just before he formally announced his candidacy for President of the United States. He was taking with his father - the potential Bush 45 speaking with Bush 41. What is Jeb's emotional tone in this moment? What does his body language tell us?

First look at his legs. His feet are about a shoulder-width apart. Generally speaking, the wider the legs and feet are apart - the greater the confidence a person is feeling in that moment. Of course - this only goes so far and if a person has their feet too widely spaced, this effect ceases - and will look odd (as well as signal other emotions - Do you know what this indicates?). Could Jeb increase his alpha emotions if his feet were even further apart? Yes, however the degree to which he he's doing so here is consistent with the level assertiveness he needs (without over-doing it).

The former Governor of Florida's back, neck and shoulders are straight and squared respectively - all consistent with high confidence.

When we look the configuration of his arms, both tell us valuable information. In concert with his shoulder his right arm is held a bit away from his body. To those who are in-tune with his nonverbal cue, they will sense a physical strength from this arm position. His right hand is relaxed - indicating no anger or undue tension.

His left hand and arm are busy with his mobile phone - yet there are two crucial components here which signal us Jeb's relative alpha-beta balance. The angle of his arm/elbow (to the axis of his torso if viewed from above him - as if we were looking directly down from the ceiling) is about 45 degrees. Viewed from the angle we have in this photo we see his arm is significantly elevated (although it could be and with some people the elbow matches the height of the shoulder and occasionally it moves even higher - do you know what such a configuration signifies?). With these two angles we can say that Mr. Bush's confidence is certainly high - but not too elevated.

Now look at his left index finger - it's centered on the back of his phone - and not with the other fingers (that is, not on opposite side of the phone from his thumb). This shows us a relatively high alpha tone predominates in the Governor's psyche.

Unlike George W. Bush, his younger brother is right handed. Jeb has got his cell phone in his left hand tell while speaking with his father - what does this tell you about his thought-feelings here?

In summary, when we take all his body language displayed in this cluster, the moment this picture was taken, the 2016 Presidential candidate has a relatively high alpha emotional mindset - he's feeling confident and assertive at about a level of 7 or 8 on a 1-to-10 scale.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3230: Kanye West arrives at Glastonbury - But What Does He Think? - Body Language

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. 3152: Hillary Clinton First Campaign Ad - "Getting Started"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2973: Rand Paul's Body Language Tells Us His Plan B for 2016

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3134: Ted Cruz to Announce his Candidacy for 2016 Presidential Race - Why He Will Never Win

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3200: Martin O'Malley announces Candidacy for 2016 Presidential Race - Body Language of Emotional Processing

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3226: Bobby Jindal Jumps In the 2016 Presidential Race - Puts "Family Meeting" online 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3132: Ashley Judd responds to Twitter Troll Harassment - "I'm pressing charges" - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Recently Ashley Judd was harassed via some very malicious twitter trolls. The talented actress took some time to speak about this incident and her intention to press charges during an MSNBC interview with Thomas Roberts earlier this week (Monday 16 March).

Curt Schilling recently made similar news in defense of his daughter who is a minor.

From a nonverbal communication perspective, Ms. Judd can be seen here beginning a "Double Index Finger (Forefinger) Point". Note this begins with her pointing in the upward direct as she says, "... and by the way, I'm pressing charges ...."

For an instant, Thomas Roberts serves as a surrogate for the perpetrators of the harassment - as Ms. Judd points in his direction (her left hand obscured by the screen labeling).

The dynamics of this body language illustrator are best appreciated via the dynamics of the video.

A fraction of a second later the actress ends her gesture pointed upwards - the same orientation in which this nonverbal signal was initiated.

(What is her facial express projecting in this split second?)






Index finger (forefinger) pointing is universally and highly offensive across all cultures. In such cases as this - the interviewer (and secondarily the TV audience) knows that they are a momentary stand-in for the accused. And yet, when despite all parties know this - to be pointed at (or to watch another being pointed at) still feels very demeaning. Most attorneys would be surprised to learn that when in trial - such pointing whether initiated subconsciously or as a deliberate tactic - very often backfires (Their ego tell tells them they are establishing authority, but in the jury's mind - this is a strong rapport destroyer).

The double index finger point is an example of a "Hyper-Alpha" nonverbal which, in the vast majority of scenarios is to be highly avoided. Ashley's occasion is perhaps one exception. Most everyone feels strong disgust for such trolling and thus have a good amount of empathy for Ashley.

Another important distinction here is that those who double point - or even point with a single finger - are showing us a sign that their temper is thinning. Ashley is NOT acting in this moment. 

By both beginning and ending pointing upwards - as Ms. Judd displays here - the intensity of the pointing is somewhat softened - and yet it is still quite caustic. So always remember - when in doubt, never, ever point.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3131: Kim Jong-un, his Uncle Jang Song-thaek and a Warning sign of Potential Violence - Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2160:  Index Finger (Forefinger) Pointing in Politics - The Third (and Final) 2012 Presidential Debates - Body Language of Being an Alpha Male without Offending

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2150:  Body Language Advice for  President Obama and Governor Romney in Tonight's Debate

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret No. 1181: Helle Thorning-Schmidt & her False Praying Gesture

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 1918:  Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates  Sharp vs. Blunt

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3122: Lebanese TV Host Rima Karaki Cuts Short London-Based Islamist's (Hani Al-Seba'i) Interview following Insolent Remarks

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2668: Ryan Seacrest - Less Offensive Variations on Pointing - Body Language Nuance (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Ryan Seacrest recently appeared as a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live. In this video clip, the producer, radio personality and host of American Idol examples several ways to "point" - with varying amounts of effectiveness - and offensiveness.

Note: The original video has, since the original post, been removed from its online source. The images below however, were captured from this video.

The index finger point (forefinger point) at 0:45 - 0:46 is considered universally offensive, patronizing and condescending - especially when there is a "wagging" component (usually up and down) to the motion [an example of a "Hyper-Alpha" Nonverbal] and thus with rare exception it should be strongly avoided. Seacrest knows this - however like most of us, we occasionally commit this body language blunder.

Mr. Seacrest subconsciously softens the offensive effect though by keeping the remainder of his fingers in a loose configuration. In addition, the palm-up direction also significantly lessens the negative feelings transmitted by this nonverbal faux pas.

During this moment (0:56), Ryan points with both his index finger and his middle finger. It is also fair to say that his thumb somewhat participates in this point. Also an alpha gesture, this two-finger point (or two and a half) nonverbal is also not generally advised but it is certainly less alienating than the index finger point. Again his loose remaining digits help to down-regulate this nonverbal and make it a bit less alpha (e.g. If his thumb were tight across his palm and pressing against his ring and pinky finger - it would be considerably more assertive and offending). Note how the fact that this is not "palm-up" engenders more negative feelings. This loose two finger point resembles the "Split-Finger Fastball" - which is a better alpha-beta hybrid to use.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2519:  Vladimir Putin Speaks Syria, Chemical Weapons and Disarmament - Body Language just after his New York Times Op-Ed

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1871: Barack Obama  Explains His "Private Sector is Doing Fine" Comment - The "Dominant Spider" vs. The "Split-Finger Fastball"

During 0:58 - 1:04, Seacrest uses his thumb in a great body language blend of one nonverbal simultaneously having three functions:
1) A universally optimistic emblem - the "Thumbs Up"
2) Using the thumb to point with
3) To count on (using it essentially like a nonverbal bullet point)





Lots of other nonverbals displayed here by both Seacrest and Kimmel. What others did you note?

See also:

Negotiation Body Language Secret # 793:  The Finger Point - A Rare Exception

Negotiation Secret # 339:  Don't Point at Me! I am not your child!

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2644: Barry Hinson's Rant - (Southern Illinois Basketball Coach) Body Language Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2667: Jimbo Fisher and Son Ethan - A Body Language Barometer of Affection

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2570: How to Count Like a Leader - Barack's Beneficial Body Language Double Entendre (VIDEO, PHOTO)

Most North Americans (>97%) and those from the U.K., when enumerating to others, count first on their index finger (forefinger), second on their middle finger, then the ring finger, pinkie and finally the thumb. However those from mainland Europe count first on their thumb, second on their forefinger, middle finger, etc. (Pease).

Note: The original video has, since the original post, been removed from its online source. The images below however, were captured from this video. 

Those from the European Mainland, and a few scattered others are wisest in this body language dichotomy. This particular order of digit display has the distinct advantage of the "Thumbs up" - an emblem of optimism.

An emblem is a nonverbal term for a  body language signal - the meaning of which is clearly and widely recognized within a city, a region or country and occasionally world-wide. The Thumbs-Up is just such a definitive and widely recognized emblem.

When North Americans and others count first with their forefingers - it carries with it the strong disadvantage of being confused with (both consciously and subconsciously) pointing. Index finger pointing (another emblem) is universally offensive and thus its use should be almost always avoided (there are rare exceptions).

So when President Obama (displayed twice in this short video), or the rest of us count first with the thumb - we "Accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative" (Thank you Johnny Mercer) - something the President, with the recent government shut down, threatened default and Obamacare miscues - is in great need of lately.







See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2563: President Obama's Subtle Anger - Body Language of Government Shutdown & the Debt Ceiling

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2561: President Obama's Self-Righteous Jaw Wiggle

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2541: Barack Obama, Permanent U.N. Security Council Members, Syria's Chemical Weapon Disarmament and a Presidential Gaffe - Body Language in the Oval Office

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2511:  Barack Obama & Vladimir Putin  Handshake at 2013 G20 Meeting

Nonverbal Communication Analysis #2160:  Index Finger (Forefinger) Pointing in Politics -  The Third (and Final) 2012 Presidential Debates -  Body Language of Being an Alpha Male without Offending 

Negotiation Body Language Secret # 349:  Julia Gillard, Pointing with Two Fingers (or more)

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1899:  Bill Cassidy and "Obama-care" -  Letting your Body Language Detract from your Message

Leadership Secret # 222: Angela Merkel - Palms Down vs. Palms Up

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1918:  Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates - Sharp vs. Blunt

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2539: Calvin Johnson, the Index Finger and Alpha Behavior - A Body Language Tell of Mobile Phones (PHOTO)

Calvin Johnson is of the best wide receivers to ever play the game of American Professional Football. In 2012 he set a record for single season receiving yards eclipsing the great Jerry Rice. Earlier that same year he signed an eight year, $132 million contract extension with the Detroit Lions - one of the World's most lucrative.

In the image above Johnson is seen speaking on a mobile phone - a setting in which a lot of key body language tells can be gleaned. As a conversation changes throughout the duration of a phone call, it is extremely useful to monitor the relative alpha-to-beta flux throughout the call.

There are many nonverbal signals which will point the way here - one of which is the position of the index finger (aka forefinger) and is particularly more prominent in men. When it is extended and alone, along the back of the cell phone (in contrast to the other fingers flexed and on the phone's side as Calvin Johnson is shown in this photo) - it is a considerable alpha signal. Subsequently it often will be seen flexing - and joining the other fingers when the context of the phone call takes on a more beta/bad news/submissive emotional tone. Later, when once again a more dominant or joyful context takes a more prominent role, the forefinger will then re-extend. This nonverbal tell is an extremely reliable signal and yields golden insight within any type of negotiation or sales setting.

Happy birthday Calvin. Good luck against the Bears.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2277: Diane O'Meara, Lennay Kekua, Ronaiah Tuiasosopo & Manti Te'o - O'Meara's Body Language - Part I

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1163: A Body Language Cheat Sheet - Mobile Phone Tells

Negotiation and Dating Secret # 111: Another Great Phone Tell

Negotiation Body Language Secret # 341: Narcissism, Parking and Cell Phones

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2035: Mitt Romney's Body Language Amplifier - (it works on the rest of us too)

Negotiation Body Language Secret # 179:  Loss of Inhibitions on Phone - Nicolas Sarkozy

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1921: Who was More Dominant - Tom Cruise or Katie Holmes?

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2263: A.J. McCarron's Body Language as hears about his Girl Friend's  (Katherine Webb's) new found Twitter Popularity 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2339: Alpha, Beta, Body Language & Rapport Destroyers

Although a still image, the scenario above shows several key nonverbal signals and tells a story - almost as if it were a video. The alpha male, on the right is displaying an index finger (forefinger) point - and in what is probably a "wag" or chopping motion along with it. The finger point is a cross-cultural and universal negative gesture. Extremely offensive, it will cause both anger and fear along with decreased comprehension of whomever at which the appendage is pointed. It is not a way to build rapport. On the contrary it is a huge rapport destroyer. When this overly aggressive gesture in amalgamated with a chop, it amplifies these negative emotions to the extreme.

Here the primary recipient (the man in the middle of this image) is displaying a common body language manifestation of anxiety - false mastication or false chewing of the inside of the cheek. Sometimes it is the tongue or lip which is softly bitten and/or chewed. Notice his upper eyelids are also opened wider than normal. In this context, this eye nonverbal signifies fear. Be mindful though, for in other nonverbal clusters these dynamics have completely different meanings. His superior (alpha) is invoking a hierarchical display resulting in fear, anxiety and a poorer awareness of details in his subordinate (beta).

Too many confuse being in a leadership position with being a leader. And when it comes to body language there are no exceptions. Autopilot doesn't cut it.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1876:  Noomi Rapace, Anxiety & False Mastication

Negotiation Secret # 33: Spanish Football & False Mastication

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2084: Lolo Jones's False Mastication/Jaw Clenching

Negotiation Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1522:  False Mastication in Court - Alicia DeBolt and  Adam Longoria

Negotiation Secret # 704:  False Mastication and  Contraction of the Central Forehead

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2122: Eyes White and Wide - Three Body Language Examples with  Two Different Emotional Cause

Negotiation Body Language Secret # 1167: Danica's Lips, Danica's Eye
 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis #2160: Index Finger (Forefinger) Pointing in Politics - The Third (and Final) 2012 Presidential Debates -  Body Language of Being an Alpha Male without Offending

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1918: Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates - Sharp vs. Blunt


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis #2160: Index Finger (Forefinger) Pointing in Politics - The Third (and Final) 2012 Presidential Debates - Body Language of Being an Alpha Male without Offending

Index finger (forefinger) pointing is universally offensive and should strongly avoided. When watching politicians we tend sometimes to allow them wider behavior norms than for most other people and situations. However this is a slippery slope and can be taken too far - and often leads to excess and often backfires. The second 2012 Presidential debate between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney was one of these times.

In a political debate setting, while the forefinger point will perhaps help to solidify one's base - this over-alpha body language will act to alienate the undecided voter. Indeed when you point, even those who like you and your cause(s) will be left with uncomfortable feelings. Attorneys who display this nonverbal in the courtroom may feel more authoritative and dominant, but this will often push the jury and/or judge to opposite opinions. The image above is from the second U.S. Presidential debate last week. If this behavior were replicated in a board room or a coffee shop - it would engender an escalation to stronger negative emotions and may very well lead to physical altercation. We want to see and listen to those who are running for such high offices. We want them illustrate their differences in opinions and show us their personalities, demonstrate how they handle themselves and how they think on their feet. But we don't want them to lose their temper or have any insecurities. It's often a fine line.

In the setting of a presidential debate there is always the issue of looking too beta, too demure and thus a weaker leader - as President Obama did during the first debate. So when the other candidate points at you - you tend to want to point back - lest you're seen as a shrinking candidate and not worthy of leadership. And while he did a good job making up for this and looking more Presidential and authoritative during the second debate, Obama displayed the index finger point much more often - something which is unusual for Barack. One place in particular where he committed this faux pas was when he pointed at the audience - and declaring how he will find who is responsible for the deaths of four Americans at the U.S. Embassy in Libya last month. We all do this on occasion - point our finger at one person or group when we  are really directing our emotions at people who are not present. They act as temporary surrogates for our anger. This is a mild form of displaced aggression. During the second debate, this was one time when the President did get angry and given the unprovoked attack and deaths of innocents, most welcome this anger. However the President should have pointed downwards rather that at the audience - and he should have also used more force with arm/hand movements (illustrators) and jabbed towards the floor several times. The map is not the territory and the terrorists are not the audience.

When Romney and Obama (or any other two candidates) point at each other during a debate - this fits into a different nonverbal context compared with when either points at the audience. The rules are more lax. But when you watching be careful not to incorporate this behavior into your body language repertoire. We expect and welcome some level sparing between these two. When we watch a football game though, we don't want to get tackled.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2152: Second Presidential Debate - 16 October 2012 - Barack Obama's Duping Delight - Benghazi, Libya Attack was an "Act of Terror" - Alpha, Beta, Confidence & Acquiescence ....

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2777: Hillary Clinton, Huma Abedin, John McCain and John Boehner

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1918: Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates - Sharp vs. Blunt

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 793: The Finger Point - A Rare Exception

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2149: Losing Votes with the Double Index Finger Point - A Faux Pas nearly Every Time

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2149: Losing Votes with the Double Index Finger Point - A Faux Pas Nearly Every Time

Joe Biden was more animated than usual in his Vice Presidential debate vs. Paul Ryan - and many speculate this was to compensate for President Barack Obama's lackluster performance the week before. However, the index finger (forefinger) double point is a nonverbal which should never be displayed in a political debate. A single hand point is an alienating and universally offensive body language gesture. While we do allow politicians a somewhat greater latitude here, they should use the single forefinger point vary sparingly - or not at all. The double point - which Biden pulled out last Thursday - should only be used at events reserved for one's political base. 

Joe Biden lost votes with this gesture.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1224: Mitt Romney's Two Handed Index Finger Point

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2777: Hillary Clinton, Huma Abedin, John McCain and John Boehner

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1918: Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates - Sharp vs. Blunt

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1652: Crude Oil, Speculators and Counting with Thumb First

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2141: Barack Obama's Body Language Index Finger and Thumb an Inch or two apart - Incredulous Eyebrow & Forehead

In this video of a recent fundraiser-campaign speech in San Francisco, during the 1:02 - 1:05 segment, Barack Obama says, "...as long as I'm Commander-in-Chief we will sustain the strongest military the World has ever known..." Simultaneous with this declaration, Obama's right eyebrow and right forehead contract and elevate - while the left-sided counterparts remain relaxed. This unilateral facial nonverbal is consistent with disbelief and/or incredulity. The statement which came just prior to this statement is not shown/heard here (e.g. it is somewhat out of context) - and the President could very well have been referencing someone or group who called into question the sincerity of his military commitments (anyone who has access to the transcript of this speech, or a larger video segment - please email the link).

Temporally overlapping slightly (1:05 - 1:07) with the above body language/facial display (and thus contributing to the body language "cluster") is another interesting nonverbal - where the President held his right thumb and forefinger (aka index finger) about 3 inches/ 7.5 cm apart. This gesture may indicate the obvious - such as "a little bit", "a small amount", etc. - however it can also signal skepticism or reluctance.

This is yet another excellent example of how, nonverbally, the hands and the face often mirror each other.

See also:

Nonverbal Analysis # 1197: Forefinger and Thumb Held Close Together - Rick Santorum

Nonverbal Analysis # 1559: Timothy Geithner on Face the Nation

Nonverbal Analysis # 1696: George Zimmerman's Testimony - Fear, Incredulity, Regret & Contempt

Nonverbal Analysis # 1600: Senator Marco Rubio - Sincerity, Self-directed Incredulity & Humor, Blocking and Appeals for the Vice Presidency

Nonverbal Analysis # 67: Incredulous Cluster

Nonverbal Analysis # 1910: Natasha Smith Sexually Assaulted in Tahrir Square - Post Assault Interview

Nonverbal Analysis # 2124: This Body Language-Facial Display Should always make you think "Insincere"

Nonverbal Analysis # 1531: Hillary Clinton Describing the Osama Bin Laden Navy SEAL Raid at the U.S. Naval Academy, 10 April 2012

Nonverbal Analysis # 2129: Barack Obama's Body Language, Misspeaks "Export More Jobs" Displays Incredulity and .....
 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2116: Michele Bachman's Hands and Seeing between the lines

During the 0:14 - 0:18 segment and again at 0:19 of this video, Michele Bachmann (R-MN) points with both hands/index fingers at her audience. The two-handed index finger (aka forefinger) point is almost exclusively used in political settings - specifically where the speaker is in front of a crowd with similar ideologies. It is rare (and extremely unwise) to see it displayed when a candidate is trying to garner votes from the independently-minded. Forefinger pointing with even one hand (seen at 0:26) should never be used outside a highly partisan political audience scenario - as it is a cross-culturally and universally offensive gesture. 

The two-handed point is used to try and demonstrate a super-alpha, highly assertive/aggressive stance - and here Ms. Bachmann is displaying it deliberately and consciously. To the casual observer it may appear that the congresswoman is highly confident here - but the truth lies in "reading" (seeing) between the nonverbal lines. Note that during 0:00 - 0:09, 0:18 - 0:19, 0:20 - 0:26 and 0:28 the Minnesota politician displays hand-to-hand touching. In body language nomenclature this is a form of a MAP (Manipulator, Adaptor or Pacifier) and it is a strong indicator of beta behavior and low confidence. Indeed at the 0:20 - 0:26 and again at 0:28, Bachmann is actively massaging/rubbing/picking at the fingers on her right hand - a signal of considerable anxiety. Thus the conscious display (the double point) - indicates FALSE/FEIGNED confidence, while the UNconscious behavior body language (MAP, self-touching) indicates the TRUE emotional tone. 

See also:

Analysis # 2777: Hillary Clinton, Huma Abedin, John McCain and John Boehner

Analysis # 337: Low Confidence Stance

Analysis # 1843: United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice in Response to Syrian Government's Houla Massacre

Analysis # 191: How to Lose Votes and Elections

Analysis # 913: Low Confidence, Low Trust and Demure

Analysis # 2046: Romney, Sincerity, Truth and Bain Capital

Analysis # 2033: Lie Detection, Sergey Lavrov and Syria

Analysis # 1869: One Body Language Signal a President Should Never Display
 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2094: Todd Akin - and Another Thing He Needs to Stop Doing

Here's another habit Representative and Senatorial Candidate Todd Akin (R-MO) needs to drop. Pointing with the forefinger (index finger) is a body language display that is universally offensive in all cultures. Do not commit this nonverbal faux pas.  It will even alienate those who are ideologically similar. Pointing at oneself is an exception to this principal - although a palm-of-hand contact to the left chest or sternum is significantly more sincere and signals much greater empathy. Another exception is pointing skyward - usually in a reference to God.

See also:

Analysis # 2777: Hillary Clinton, Huma Abedin, John McCain and John Boehner

Analysis # 1918: Vladimir Putin - Pointing with Pen Surrogates - Sharp vs. Blunt

Analysis # 1705: Francois Hollande & the French Presidential Election - The Pistol Steeple and Emotional Dissonance

Analysis # 349: Pointing with Two Fingers (or more)

Analysis # 339: Don't Point at Me! I am not your child!
 

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