Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3702: Hillary Clinton: "Why aren't I 50 points ahead (of Trump)?'' - Body Language and Emotional Intelligence (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Hillary Clinton referenced Donald Trump yesterday during a video conference with the Laborers' International Union of North America. Among other things she said, "Why aren’t I 50 points ahead (of Trump)?"

The clip above is a portion of this video conference. When she said, "Nobody should be fooled!", the Democratic Presidential nominee pointed with both her index fingers toward the audience. Pointing with an index finger (forefinger) is universally negatively interpreted across all cultures, ethnicities and countries - and pointing with both index fingers is considerably more so. Politicians can get away with this nonverbal faux pas prior to the conventions - for in these settings they are relying on their hard-core political base (although it's still not recommended) who will largely jump off a cliff for their perceived leader.

However once the front runners are chosen and the candidates are chasing the swing voters, the double index finger point will server to alienate them. It's not at all a rapport builder - rather it's a rapport destroyer.

Note Mrs. Clinton's face - her eyebrows are vectored downward and drawn together - while her eyelids are opened significantly wider than baseline. Her lower lids are also more tense while Hillary's mid-face is tightened, her nostrils are flared and her jaw is jutting forward. Almost everyone will recognize this as a classic expression of considerable anger.

It's important to recognize the connection between facial tension and hand tension. When the face expresses anger - the hands are also virtually always negative gestured. And when the hands are configured with anxiety, anger or frustration - this also influences the face in a negative direction. Mrs. Clinton's facial expression in this moment is a clear example of this phenomenon.

Summary: The index finger point, particularly when performed with both hands will alienate all but the loyal voters. Mrs. Clinton is playing into Trump's hand here (pardon the metaphor). She should also stop using this gesture because it leads to an up-regulates of anger. And ... Hillary Clinton should absolutely not display this nonverbal signal during the Presidential Debates.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3701: Hillary Clinton, Between Two Ferns With Zach Galifianakis

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3426: Barack Obama, Executive Action, Gun Control and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3699: The Tulsa Police and the Shooting Death of Terence Crutcher

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3694: Donald Trump, Jimmy Fallon and Messing Up Hair

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3684: Barack Obama's and Vladimir Putin's "Stare-Down" at the G20

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3669: Jordan Spieth, Bill Murray and the Asymmetrical Smile

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3533: Johnny Depp and Amber Heard - Australian Biosecurity

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3636: Donald Trump, Hillary's Emails, Putin and Russia


_____________________________________________________________________________________

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

On this day of the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, take a moment to view the above video segment from the most recent republican debate in Des Moines, Iowa. Senator Marco Rubio is featured three times during this clip. In each of these segments, especially the first two, the junior senator from Florida uses one particular nonverbal signal far too much.

Using any body language excessively (regardless of the type), just as with speaking or writing any word too frequently, will strongly suggest lack of vocabulary (spoken language, written language or body language), lack of experience (at least in this example, on such a large and important national stage) - or anxiety (the brain has difficulty multitasking during times of distress so it resorts to using the few "default settings" with which it has grown accustomed).

Sen. Rubio's intention is to project his assertiveness, determination and anger - by using a downward index finger (forefinger) point with the added hand chop dynamic. This is most certainly a high alpha body language display. The trouble is, as with most politicians and almost everyone using alpha nonverbal signals - is that they go overboard and use them far too dramatically and much too frequently. When over-used, alpha body language is, by definition, hyper-alpha and will polarize and destroy rapport rather than creating or building it.

In the political realm we will see hyper-alpha body language displays by members of the opposing party challengers (in this case the republicans opposing President Obama) much more often than members of the incumbent party running for the same political office. Moreover, hyper-alpha displays are also seen more often before the respective national conventions and a final party representative is then chosen. After the republican and democratic conventions the candidates will of course be trying to win the middle third of the electorate who are undecided - thus their nonverbals (intuitively or coached) will become more diplomatic/rapport building and less hyperbolic/less polarizing.

Did you notice Rubio's additional mistake? He wasn't really using an index finger downward point as much he was pointing directly toward the audience/camera. This is a profound faux pas, as pointing with an index finger towards anyone, even if they otherwise like you (and will vote for you) will alienate them. Index finger pointing is viewed world-wide as extremely offensive and patronizing.

As with any athlete after a game, Senator Rubio (and his staff) should take time to view and critique his performance, alerting him to this and other mistakes.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3452: A Ted Cruz Rapport Destroyer

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3450: Kanye West reacts to Paparazzi's questions regarding Wiz Khalifa

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3443: Donald Trump - "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and Shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose any Voters!"

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

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. 3371: John Kasich at the Republican Debate 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2840: Shailene Woodley, Jon Steward Show and a Body Language of Sexual Interest Display 


_____________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3443: Donald Trump - "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and Shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose any Voters!" - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

As with material for comedians across the World, Donald Trump also supplies a never-ending fodder of extreme body language to those who study it. Today in Sioux Center, Iowa, Mr. Trump said, "... My people are so smart. And you know what else they say about my people? - The polls. They say, 'I have the most loyal people'. Did you ever see that? Where I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn't lose any voters, Okay? It's like incredible!"

This was not simply hyperbolic boasting. Note that Mr. Trump used a handgun illustrator (not to be confused with the "pistol steeple") during this braggadocio statement. In addition when he said, "shoot" - he moved his thumb as a visual metaphor for pulling the trigger. Moreover he "aimed" his handgun directly at the camera/audience.

With the exception of some military or law enforcement, melodrama or comedic scenarios this is an extremely rare body language illustrator for anyone in a leadership position to display - particularly those who are running for office. If you watch 10,000 hours of news reports and you won't see this again. Even the more simple (and much more common) index finger (forefinger) pointing is highly offensive and hyper-aggressive - regardless of the country or culture. But a simulated gun firing gesture raises the ramifications to a level rarely seen. Its use in this manner is highly correlative with  low or absent empathy, impulse control disorder, narcissistic personality disorder and (on occasion) antisocial personality disorder.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3442: Jennifer Lawrence Scolds Journalist at Golden Globes

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3431: El Chapo, Sean Penn, an Interview and a Handshake 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3424: Donald Trump, "Hillary Clinton created ISIS with Obama" 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3265: Donald Trump, Exaggerated Mouth Movements, Narcissistic and Hyper-Alpha Personalities

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3358: Hillary Clinton on Stephen Colbert - We Let the Banks Fail Next Time 

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


_____________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3241: Trump - a Hyper-Alpha Donald vs. a Kinder, Gentler Version - Body Language and Likability (PHOTOS)

Donald Trump's personality is generally very confrontational. Some would describe it as an "in your face" style - while others would label him with having narcissistic personality disorder.

Here, "The Donald" is shown in two contrasting hand-arm gestures (aka "illustrators"). Prior to the primaries, you may notice that virtually all candidates will use alpha - and even hyper-alpha body language displays much more frequently. After the primary, although such nonverbals are still used, their frequency diminishes. This behavior is virtually all subconsciously driven and done so in an effort to draw distinctions between their competitors who have very similar political ideologies. Yet the hyper-alpha body language always backfires. Rather than building rapport, hyper-alpha nonverbal signals destroy it. Only those who already are aligned with the candidate will be attracted to such behavior - all others will be alienated.

Below Mr. Trump is shown pointing with a "palms-up" illustrator. This accomplishes the goal of drawing visual attention ("pointing") - yet it does so in a rapport-building manner. While still demonstrating assertiveness and authority it has none of the negative side-effects of the above displayed index finger pointing (aka forefinger point). Narcissistic personalities have difficulty grasping and accomplishing this important distinction. What "feels right" to them - has the opposite emotional impact on others (for those who use such index finger pointing excessively [or even moderately] lack empathy and suffer an excess of ego). Index finger pointing is negatively received across all cultures.

A profound and almost never recognized benefit of a less aggressive/kinder hand-arm gesture - is its effect on the face. Tension in the hand will be mirrored on the face - as well as the emotional status. And a kinder, empathetic hand will produce a kinder face. This effect is greatly demonstrated in these two images. An astute person will recognize this hand-face relationship and use it as a biofeedback tool to regulate their emotions (there are of course many others).

While Donald Trump is currently enjoying a boost in the polls when compared with most of the 2016 republican presidential candidates - he is simply not likable. In order to win a presidential primary (let alone a general election) a candidate must be likable. And the largest component in the likability equation is body language.

Donald Trump will absolutely not win the republican nomination.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3240: Ariana Grande - Tongues, New Boyfriend, Donuts ... & Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3132: Ashley Judd responds to Twitter Troll Harassment - "I'm pressing charges"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2149:  Joe Biden - Losing Voters with the Double Index Finger Point -  A Faux Pas Nearly Every Time

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3152: Hillary Clinton First Campaign Ad - "Getting Started"


___________________________________________________________________________________

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

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 or religious agenda.

Ted Cruz has leaked the fact that tomorrow he will formally announce his 2016 candidacy for the Presidency of the United States. Politics aside, the freshman Senator from Texas has absolutely no chance to win either the Republican nomination - let alone the White House. One non-political reason is - while he's very good at stirring up emotions, Cruz lacks even a fundamental understanding of building likability and rapport - and the psychology behind it. Without such knowledge and ability, no candidate will ever capture a significant fraction of that middle 1/3 of the electorate.

One example of this interpersonal blind spot is demonstrated above. This image was captured last month at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference - of course a very friendly audience for a republican candidate - yet even here faux pas abound.

Note Cruz is pointing his index finger towards the audience. Forefinger (index finger) pointing is universally offensive across all cultures on the planet - so even if a republican is in front of a conservative group - THIS BODY LANGUAGE WILL ALIENATE. Moreover his finger pointing is the only thing preventing his hand from forming a full, closed-fist. Such an 80% fist is another high-tension illustrator which destroys rapport. In addition Cruz's arm/fist is raised - further drawing tension. And while perhaps solidifying his hardline followers, this gesture pushes away the vast majority of any possible "maybe voters".

Another profoundly important nonverbal principle demonstrated in this image is the correlation between the Senator's face and his hands. When the emotions are sincere - hand tension will tend to strongly mirror facial tension - and vice versa. When the emotions are being feigned - the hands and facial stress levels will very often be quite disparate. Thus we can conclude absolutely that Senator Cruz's anger and disgust displayed on his face in this moment are indeed very sincere - for this anger is reflected by the configuration of his left arm, fist and forefinger - yet these will not build rapport or get him the swing voters he or any candidate needs.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3133: The Red Flag of Robert Durst's Body Language

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2963: Barack Obama at the United Nations General Assembly regarding ISIS/ISIL, 24 September 2014 - Body Language Faux Pas

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2596: What Motivates Ted Cruz's Regarding Anti-Obamacare, Body Language Tells on Jay Leno

_________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2687: Is He a Bully? Chris Christie - Being and Looking Kinder - Body Language Tells (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Regardless of what side of the political isle you vote on, few would argue that any politician within a republic (or similar government) benefits from the practice or perception of bullying. Chris Christie is no different. He has of course been accused of being a bully. And whether he decides to run for President in 2016 or he permanently exits from politics after his governorship, he would benefit dramatically from moving away from this - in image or reality. Many things contribute to the behavior of a bully. One is being hyper-alpha in your words, your vocal quality and/or your body language. Interestingly, altering one of these three will tend to dramatically influence the other two. Thus if your nonverbal displays are aggressive - so will your words, your tone, etc.

The World over, index finger pointing is negatively received. Even if you like another person - you don't want them pointing at you. Politicians lose votes this way - yet few realize it. Note that Christie's fourth and fifth digits (ring finger and pinky) are tightly contracted, while his first and third digits (thumb and middle finger) are loose. If his entire hand (except for the pointing index/forefinger) were in a tight fist, this would be "felt" by the audience as even more aggressive. Additionally if his palm were facing down rather than perpendicular to the ground - this configuration would also dial up his alpha display even further.

A much better way to "point" to is with the palm directed upward, fingers and thumb held loosely, without the arm fully extended (only a modest bend at the elbow and shoulder). This projects a person who is open to others ideas and contributions - and yet still conveys strong and effective leadership. If you're in a leadership position, you should seek these qualities in order to build consensus. This body language is an example of an "alpha-beta hybrid" - which are recognized, understood and utilized far too rarely by those who are deemed "leaders".

What goes unnoticed my all but a few, is that when the hands display "kinder" body language, the facial expressions will mirror such emotions. The reverse is also true. In the image above, what does Governor Christie's facial expression convey?

See also:

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. 2680: Chris Christie's State of the State Address - Body Language Swagger and Sincerity

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2673: New Jersey Bridge Closing - Fort Lee, NJ Mayor Mark Sokolich - What His Body Language Says about His Feelings towards Governor Chris Christie

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2685: Amber Heard, Johnny Depp Engaged - When They Fell In Love

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2684: Controversial Sex Ed Poster - A Concerned Parent and a Contemptuous School Official 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2672: Dennis Rodman, Kim Jong Un and the Finger-Point Hand-Chop, Body Language from North Korea

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2668: Ryan Seacrest - Less Offensive Variations on Pointing - Body Language Nuance




________________________________________________________________________________

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

________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2646: Does Barack Obama Want to Go to the Sochi (Russia) Winter Olympics? What His Body Language Tells (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

This video gives us a great example in the evaluation of a nonverbal cluster - that is, several body language signs occurring simultaneously or in close temporal proximity. A cluster is truly a nonverbal sentence".

It begins with President Barack Obama saying, "Ahhh ya know me attending Olympics particularly at a time when we got all the other stuff that people been talking about is going to be tough, although I would love to do it [hard, dry swallow]. I'll be going to a lot of Olympic Games post-Presidency ... um ..."

During 0:07

An extended blink (a form of gaze aversion) along with a partially suppressed smile - aka Duping Delight (Ekman) begins a body language cluster which tells us what Mr. Obama really feels about going to Sochi, Russia for the upcoming Winter Olympics.

During 0:09 - 0:10

Here the President makes a "Hard Swallow (and Dry)" as he looks down - away from his audience (more gaze aversion). Both nonverbal changes are very common in the midst of deception.

During 0:11 - 0:12

The index finger (aka forefinger) point (disguised here as a bit o' "awe shucks" swagger) is a major nonverbal faux pas - and one President Obama rarely commits. One thing this tells us is that he was (for a few seconds) off his game with respect to his body language. This temporary disinhibition was due to anxiety brought about by his previous lie. He very probably will be going to many Olympics in the future - however he has no desire to be back in Russia and in the company of Vladimir Putin. Note his suppressed smile/duping delight has re-appeared.

It is also an interesting statement analysis observation that Mr. Obama uses poorer (extemporaneous) word selection during these few seconds (we all do when we lie). Grammar, syntax and word choices all grow worse during deception.

In summary, the President was fibbing when he said he would love to go to the Sochi Olympics.

What else did you notice in President Obama's last press conference of 2013?

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2595: Barack Obama's Emotional Dissonance, Low Confidence and the "Turtle Retreat" - He Does Not Want To Be There

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2602: Barack Obama at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2593: Barack Obama, Insurance Cancellations and Signals of Low Confidence

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

Negotiation Secret # 140:  Duping Delight Microexpression  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2236:  John Boehner & the Fiscal Cliff Plan B Failure - Body Language of Duping Delight

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2411:  Zimmerman's Attorney, Mark O'Mara's -  Body Language Faux Pas in Court

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2312:  Bruce Willis' Body Language -  Contempt vs. Suppressed Smile vs.  Pseudo Smile vs. Sincere Smile

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2586: Harrison Ford in "Ender's Game" - Microexpression and Macroexpression of Regret - Harrison's Brand and the Stanislavski Method
________________________________________________________________________________

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


___________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2245: The Fiscal Cliff Grows Closer & Tempers Fray - Barack Obama's Body Language

The fiscal cliff is closer with each passing hour and President Obama, who normally rarely shows any anger, displayed some yesterday during his press conference. Barack Obama is very skilled at the use of nonverbal hand illustrators. For example, he makes good use of both the two-handed & one-handed basketball steeple, the loose-fist-thumbs-up point, the claw, the split finger fastball, etc. during this appearance in the White House Press Room. However when photographers and others were making excessive noise, his he broke into an index-finger point (2:02). This indicates a momentary heightened alpha state in emotional-tone in a person who seldom uses this nonverbal and should, to the astute body language observer, indicate a shortening of his fuse. This somewhat subtle but highly significant nonverbal signal indicates anger.

Anyone can spot extreme changes in emotion. However everyone should endeavor to nuance their ability to see inside others' emotional brains - for therein is great advantage.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 2152:  Second Presidential Debate - 6 October 2012 - Barack Obama's Duping Delight - Benghazi, Libya Attack was an "Act of Terror" - Alpha, Beta, Confidence & Acquiescence ...

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 Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1224: Two Handed Index Finger Point 

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 

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1705: François Hollande & the French Presidential Election  The Pistol Steeple and Emotional Dissonance 

Negotiation Secret # 339: Dwayne Wade to David Stern, "Don't Point at Me! I am not your child!"

_______________________________________________________________________________________

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
 

___________________________________________________________________________________

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

Hillary Clinton is not often on the same side of an issue as John McCain and John Boehner - however they are when it comes to Huma Abedin, Clinton's long-time aide and deputy chief-of-staff. After five house republicans called into question whether Ms. Abedin has ties to the Muslim Brotherhood because a possible association her long-deceased father may have had - all three came to her defense. 

During the 0:17 - 0:27 segment of this video, Secretary Clinton is praising McCain and Boehner while denouncing the McCarthyesque actions of those questioning Ms. Abedin's loyalty. Ms. Clinton uses the "Political Point" with her right hand along with an up-and-down chopping motion of her right arm. The political point is used in lieu of a traditional finger point (index finger/forefinger) or other similar nonverbals (the two finger point, pointing with a pen or pencil). As its moniker alludes to, this form of pointing is seen most often in the political arena and is a "softer" and friendlier way to point. 

The "index finger point" is a body language that is cross-culturally offensive and with rare exception should never be used. Often the thumb and forefinger are in a loose and nearly circular configuration - which is seen when the face, particularly the mid-face and mouth are more relaxed and void of anger and other negative emotional body language signals. Note however, that Ms. Clinton's digits are pinched together to form a tear-drop shape. When this variation of the political-point is seen, there is a more negative emotional tone present - which is often seen with corresponding facial tension. Ms. Clinton displays a subtle body language expression of contempt during this same ten second segment - which is directed at Huma Abedin's accusers - Michele Bachmann (R-MN), Trent Franks (R-AZ), Louie Gohmert (R-Tx), Thomas Rooney (R-FL) and Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA).

Thus the pinched-political point (tear-drop shaped) is a more assertive and aggressive variation compared to the circular, relaxed and relative-beta variety. Ms. Clinton's chopping motion of her arm further adds to these more alpha emotions. While to some these may seem nearly identical gestures, nuancing this difference will allow you a clearer view into others' psyches. If negative emotions are present - endeavor to see through the camouflage ... or you will be ambushed.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Analysis # 1705: François Hollande & the French Presidential Election The Pistol Steeple and Emotional Dissonance

François Hollande won the first round of French Presidential elections over the weekend. The incumbent, Nicholas Sarkozy finished second by about 1.5% (eight other candidates were eliminated). The two will meet in a run-off election on May 5 &6 to determine the next leader of France.

See also:  

Secret # 531: Sarkozy's Mouth Tells Us What He's Feeling
 
Secret # 493: Contrasting David Cameron and Nicholas Sarkozy - Alpha & Beta Behavior

Secret # 743 & 744: Sarkozy's Shhhh! - and a Partial Emblematic Slip

Mr. Hollande displays a "Pistol Steeple" (aka "Handgun Steeple") in this recent image. This variation of the steeple gesture is a great example of emotional dissonance. If all his fingers were interlocked, it would be a purer (and much more beta) body language symbol. This nonverbal sends mixed messages though. With the two forefingers steepled, this gesture indicates a significantly higher alpha emotional tone. It would be wise if Francois would use this gesture on rare occasions and only for a second or two - since it is also an amalgam of the double index finger point. The handgun steeple is patronizing and condescending. This effect is amplified when the hands/arms are moved up and down in a chopping motion - and further dialed up with higher and faster movements.

Only those who view themselves as superior (see below) will use this variation pistol steeple. Accordingly, in political settings it tends to be used only in front of very friendly crowds (lest it backfire) - but it's still not recommended.

A further variant of the pistol steeple (aka the Double Shhh! Sign - and not exampled by here Hollande, See: Analysis # 1711: Charles Taylor, Sierra Leone and the Double Shhh! Sign) is used in front of the mouth, with the two forefingers (index fingers) pressed up against the lips. While this may look similar, its position connotes an entirely different meaning.

See also:

Secret #349: Pointing with Two Fingers (or More)

Secret # 1224: Two Handed Index Finger Point

Secret # 1233: Putin's Pen Point

Since most of the fingers are interlocked - and thus this is a type of MAP (manipulator, adaptor or pacifier), the pistol steeple also demonstrates the presence of defensiveness, closed-mindedness and beta-feelings. While these are not the primary emotions expressed (or felt) in this moment, they do play a role in the mind and subsequent actions of those expressing it. When the elbows are held closer to the sides of the body, these beta traits are amplified. If the elbows are further out - the beta component drops (note Mr. Hollande is intermediately positioned).

The pistol steeple therefore expresses emotional dissonance. There are both alpha and beta feelings present. If you see this signal, particularly in the work place or in the context of a relationship, it is a warning sign.

See also:

Analysis # 1650: Ozzie Guillen Gets Suspended By Miami Marlins Team President

Secret # 1143: Santorum Video Analysis - R2E2 and Other Tells

___________________________________________________________________________________

Nonverbal Communication Secret # 1995: Barack Obama, Social Darwinism and the Political Point

This video is an excerpt from his Tuesday speech to the American Society of Newspaper Editors, in which President Obama refers to the House Republican Budget Plan (authored by Paul Ryan of Wisconsin) as "...thinly veiled Social Darwinism ....". At the 0:54 mark, the President begins using (with his right hand) a body language gesture often referred to as the "Political Point" or the "Politician's Point" and continues through out the remainder of the clip.

The politician's point is formed by touching the thumb to the index finger and making a loose circle-oval. Occasionally more fingers are used as The President does here. This form of "pointing" is much more benign than the conventional and very caustic, "Index Finger Point". A rapport destroyer and universally offensive, pointing with the index finger should almost never be done. Conversely, the political point engenders trust, builds rapport and will aide in winning the audience over.

Incredibly, the nonverbals of the face and hand are very closely linked. Thus anger in the face - even subtle anger, tends to be also manifested in hand tension. The opposite is true as well - tension in the hands can often arouse negative emotions which are then manifested on the face. By using more inviting and friendly hand gestures - a speaker can help modulate his/her emotions to a much greater degree - even to an audience of one. 

Nuanced even further, when some speakers use the political point, but pinch their fingers to their thumb tightly, this detracts from the soothing effect on the audience and also has a negative feedback to the speaker. This will often be reflected in an increase in speech volume too. Indeed, at the very end of this video, note that The Presidents begins to pinch more and his emotions and voice grow more heated. Those who keep the finger and thumb loosely held achieve a more full effect of the political point. It's another nice little form of biofeedback courtesy of body language

This hand-face-emotional phenomenon is very probably the basis for why hand massages are great stress relievers.

___________________________________________________________________________________