Body Language Analysis No. 4318: Jim Jordan regarding Allegations of Ignoring Knowledge of Sexual Abuse at Ohio State - Nonverbal and Emotional Intelligence (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Recently, it has come to public knowledge, that while Jim Jordan was an assistant coach on the men's wrestling team at Ohio State University, a then team physician - Dr. Richard Strauss - allegedly sexually abused many athletes. Multiple former wrestlers on the team have now come forward alleging that Jordan had knowledge of - but ignored their complaints of Strauss' sexual abuse.

Dr. Strauss died of suicide in 2005.

What follows is a partial nonverbal analysis of Representative Jordan in the above video. In addition, crucial wording of Jordan's answers/statement is also subjected to statement analysis.

At multiple times during this video (e.g., six times in the first 38 seconds), Representative Jordan displays what is known as a Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (R2E2). One of these examples (photo immediately above) is shown above, was captured during the 0:12 second mark as Jordan said, "... it was on an email chain ..."

The Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression is a common nonverbal signal which varies in duration (e.g., very briefly, such as a microexpression or near-microexpression) - but it may also manifest via longer-duration facial displays. Most body language novices will mistake this the R2E2 with the thought-emotion signal of disgust - yet these have two completely different meanings. An R2E2 resembles a unilateral snarl and almost always is accompanied by partially closed eyelids and often times with a side-to-side head shaking.

It's crucial to emphasize that all emotionally-healthy people display the R2E2 expression on occasion, but when it is seen - and most importantly, when it's frequent, one should always ask the following questions:

• What's my overall feeling of their sincerity in this moment? 
• Does this person truly believe what they're saying?
• What specifically, do I feel is their predominant emotion in this moment?
• What are my gut feelings regarding this person's motive(s) in this moment?
• Of what, specifically, are they trying to convince me?
• Why are they putting an extra effort in trying to convince me of an idea, course of action, etc.?
• Are they feigning an "Achilles Heel" and if so, what is it? Why would they share with me one of their weaknesses?

A warning light should go on when you see an R2E2. For although it's not true 100% of the time, very often people displaying the R2E2 are trying to rationalize and seek our empathy. They're trying to gain rapport and your trust. This is especially true when we see it frequently - or they're agitated, accused, in the spotlight, etc. In addition, much of the time they're also trying to convince their own psyche. Thus, they're trying to get you to jump on board and become a "Co-Rationalizer".

Remember - we all use the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression once in a while. Professionals who tend to over-use the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression include sales professionals, physicians, pundits, those in law enforcement, politicians, and attorneys.

Throughout the vast majority of this video, Representative Jordan holds his hands on his hips - which is often referred to as "Arms Akimbo". More specifically, although we can't see his hands directly, via the position of his arms, we can discern his fingers are positioned forward with his thumbs backward. A fingers forward arms akimbo configuration in this context is hyper-alpha.

(In the opposite scenario - the thumbs-forward/fingers-backward arms akimbo transmits supportive, helpful, and sometimes quizzical emotions. Although this other variation projects some alpha qualities, it's clearly an alpha-beta hybrid.)

When confronted with the alleged knowledge of - along with the alleged lack of reporting of such a large scale case of systemic abuse - particularly when his view of events is opposed to other contemporary witnesses who are now on public record - in this setting, a nonverbal response of a fingers-forward arms akimbo is defensive. On its own, this hyper alpha configuration does not indicate deception - and while a person who has no direct knowledge of the events in question would certainly not be configured in a beta body language (e.g., a fig leaf) - he'd also be much more likely to be in a relatively neutral position (e.g., having his arms at his sides). In other words, an innocent person tends not to be defensive - in words, action, tone, and body language.

Jim Jordan made one statement which is a profound example of statement analysis. Note his following answer to a question regarding Doctor Strauss:

JIM JORDAN (continuing at 2:41): Ah, I, I, I did know Doctor Strauss - he was, ah, you know, he, was there when we got to Ohio state, ahum - and - was continued to work at Ohio State once, once I left. Ah, so, yeah, you know, knew, knew ah, the doctor. Ahum - but there's no truth to the fact that, that I knew of any abuse. Ahhh, er, I've talked to other coaches - they didn't know of any abuse [pseudo-laughing] ah, it j'st, it j'st, it - that's just not accurate to say those things - that we knew of it 'nd didn't report it. It's just not true.

His choice of words "... but there's no truth to the fact that, that I knew of any abuse..." is what many would call a "Freudian Slip". If Jordan were telling the truth, then an allegation against his version of events would not be a "fact" (they would be lies). Rather, he should have said, "these allegations are false" or "I didn't know of any abuse".

Another intriguing display of statement analysis is exampled in Jordan's strong tendency to use the plural pronoun "we" rather than the first person singular pronoun "I" throughout this video. The use of "we" rather than "I" is often an attempt to diffuse responsibility, guilt, and blame. This word choice may be either subconsciously or consciously driven and is a variation of what is known as "Forced Teaming" (de Becker).

SUMMARY: Representative Jordan's body language in this video, although not definitive for deception - is moderately suggestive that he did have contemporaneous knowledge of the allegations of sexual abuse raised against Dr. Richard Strauss. Statement analysis of Jordan's verbal behavior indicates an even higher index of suspicion that Jordan was informed of the allegations against Dr. Strauss during his tenure as an assistance wrestling coach at Ohio State University.

Group Appearances and One-on-One

Online Courses Available 

702-239-8503

Jack@BodyLanguageSuccess.com

See also:

Body Language Analysis No. 4317: Scott Pruitt Confronted in Restaurant by Kristin Mink

Body Language Analysis No. 4315: Rep. Jim Jordan grills Rod Rosenstein at DOJ hearing

Body Language Analysis No. 4312: South Korea Defeats Germany at The World Cup

Body Language & Emotional Intelligence - Analysis No. 4106 (Reposting with Addendum): Jordan's Queen Rania meets with Rohingya Refugee Children & Melania Trump's Visit to Children's Shelter/Detention Center

Body Language Analysis No. 4299: Bill Clinton confronted regarding Monica Lewinsky Affair

Body Language Analysis No. 4283: Unidentified Man with Qatari Ahmed Al-Rumaihi in Trump Tower Elevator on 12 December 2016

Body Language Analysis No. 4241: Vladimir Putin responding to a question regarding the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal

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

Body Language Analysis No. 4162: Is Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Going to Run for President in 2020?

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Body Language Analysis No. 4203: Mikaela Shiffrin and the R2E2 Expression - Nonverbal and Emotional Intelligence (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

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


Mikaela Shiffrin is a three-time World Champion and a Sochi Olympic Gold Medalist Alpine (Slalom) Skier. Ten months ago (above video), she was a guest on Late Night with Seth Meyers. Ms. Shiffrin is a favorite to possibly repeat her Gold Medal performance in a just a couple days in PyeongChang. What follows is a partial nonverbal analysis of a key portion of this interview.

The above image was captured during 1:59. This is a classic Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (R2E2).

A Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression may last just a split second (thus a microexpression) but it can be of longer duration (several seconds). Nonverbal novices will often confuse the R2E2 with that of disgust - however, the two expressions have very different meanings (How do these two emotions and facial manifestations differ?).

Every single emotionally healthy person makes the R2E2 from time-to-time. Yet, when a person displays it frequently, you should always ask yourself the following questions:

• What was their primary emotion as they spoke?
• What, specifically, are they trying to convince me of/Trying to Gain my Rapport?
• What are my gut feelings of their motive(s)?
• Do they truly believe what they, themselves, are saying?
• How do you feel about their overall level of sincerity (What's their Sincerity Quotient)? 
• Are they feigning a weakness?/Trying to Gain my Empathy? If so, what is it? Why?

The vast majority of the time, those who make the R2E2 expression are trying to rationalize - to convince themselves of something - AND, more importantly, they're also trying to recruit you/convince you as a Co-Rationalizer.

Summary: When you see the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression - be careful - for it's frequently seen when others are trying too hard to gain your co-rationalization, rapport, empathy, and trust.


Group Appearances and One-on-One
Online Courses Available 
702-239-8503
Jack@BodyLanguageSuccess.com


See also:

Body Language Analysis No. 4202: Saoirse Ronan, Ed Sheeran, and Galway Girl (Galway Grill)

Body Language Analysis No. 4200: Mike Pence re: Rob Porter and Why It Seems Pence is "Out Of The Loop" on Major News

Body Language Analysis No. 4198: Lupita Nyong'o, Black Panther, and Attention to Detail

Body Language Analysis No. 4196: Trey Gowdy on "Face The Nation"

Body Language Analysis No. 4190: Serial Killer Bruce McArthur - and a Common Nonverbal Pattern of Sociopaths

Body Language Analysis No. 4175: Senator Dick Durbin Regarding President Trump's "Shithole Countries" Remarks

Body Language Analysis No. 4143: Billy Bush regarding Donald Trump on the "Access Hollywood Tape" (Stephen Colbert Interview)

Body Language Analysis No. 4134: Hope Hicks, Emotional Intelligence, and Communicating Nonverbally

Body Language Analysis No. 3978: Keanu Reeves, Chuck Spadina, Sincerity, and Empathy


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3776: VP Elect Mike Pence Defends Trump's Claim of Voter Fraud - Body Language and Emotional Intelligence (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Vice President Elect Mike Pence was a guest on This Week early today. Host George Stephanopoulos pressed the Indiana Governor regarding President Elect Donald Trump's claim of millions cases of voter fraud. From a body language perspective there's an excellent example in this interview of an often seen yet rarely discussed classic facial expression - the "Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression" (abbreviated R2E2).

During 2:47 - 2:48 in the above video, as Pence says, "...  the, the connection ...", (during the sub-sentence "...  and ahhhh, I, I think ahhh, I think the, the connection that he made in the course his campaign is a reflection of that ...") - Pence displays a classic R2E2 expression (captured below).

The R2E2 is a nonverbal facial expression which can last for very short duration (for a fraction of a second as a "Microexpression" or "Near-Microexpression") - however it may also be present for longer time periods (in this example it last for approximately 0.9 seconds). Most body language rookies will confuse the R2E2 with the expression (and thus also the emotion) of disgust - yet these two nonverbals have completely different meanings.

It's important to note that while every emotionally-healthy person displays the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression on occasion - when it is seen, and especially when it's displayed more often frequently, you would be well-advised to contemplate each of the following:

• What do my instincts tell me of this person's motive(s) in this moment?
• Does this person seem like they believe what they are saying?
• On what idea/opinion (very specifically), are they trying to persuade me?
• What is my "gut feeling" of their sincerity in this moment?
• If I could pick one emotion of theirs to describe the moment, what would it be?
• Are my own emotions causing me to be biased?
• Do I feel as if they are putting extra effort into trying to sell me on their idea or opinion?
• Does it seem as if they showing me their "Achilles Heel" too easily?
• Is there a specific weakness of theirs which is being discussed? 

A very high percentage of the time, people who are displaying the R2E2 are trying to rationalize - AND are trying (subconsciously and consciously) to get you to CO-rationalize. They're trying to convince you (as well as their own psyche) of an idea or opinion in which they do not themselves' believe (or don't fully believe). Be careful when you see the R2E2 Expression - because it's seen when others are trying too hard to gain your rapport, trust and empathy.

Summary: Although every human being displays the R2E2 on occasion - but when you see it used too frequently (or during a particularly crucial portion of a conversation) - fed flags have been raised (Can you see them?).

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3775: Women Try 'Manspreading' For A Week

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3773: Dinner with Donald Trump - What was Mitt Romney Feeling?

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3771: Tom Hanks Reenacts Iconic Forrest Gump Scene

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3558: Mila Kunis Nixes Ashton Kutcher's choice regarding Their Baby's Name

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3717: Creepy Clowns, Body Language and Emotional Intelligence

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3693: Grace VanderWaal Wins America's Got Talent Season 11

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3663: Olympic Wrestler Frank Molinaro gets bitten by Ukraine's Andriy Kvyatkovskyy

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3620: Cristiano Ronaldo's Injury, UEFA Euro 2016 and Body Language

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


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3559: Kit Harington, Game of Thrones, Jon Snow and Body Language - Spoiler Alert (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Spoiler Alert!

Kit Harington was a guest recently on Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show.  During his appearance he let leak a few secrets from The Game of Thrones - and one much speculation is included within the above video clip.

After revealing this key component of the story line, the Harington mentions that when he was first told of this secret himself - there were very few people he was "allowed" to tell - which, of course, did not include his parents.

What follows is a highlight of one particular nonverbal of Jon Snow's, er, ah, Kit Harington's - which is very common - yet not understood in the least by the vast majority of people.

Harington continues his instructions of secrecy at 0:43, "... and now you know. And you can't tell your Mum, you can't tell your Dad, you can't tell your brother, you can't tell your friends - no one."

Fallon: "No one knew?"

Harington: "No one knew."

Fallon: "You didn't tell anyone else?"

Harington: "I told Mum and Dad straight away, yeah ..."

0:54.7 - fully developed R2E2















Harington displays a Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (aka an R2E2) just after he says, as he says, "I told Mum and Dad straight away, yeah ..." (during 0:54 - 0:55).

The R2E2 may be displayed as a microexpression - or a bit longer as it is here - primarily manifested for about one second, yet with a slow "trailing off" for about another second (thus an example of a macroexpression).

The vast majority of those who claim to know body language will misinterpret R2E2 displays as disgust or, as it appears closer to in this example - contempt. How can you differentiate R2E2s from these other two emotional displays?

The R2E2 is an expression which is extremely common. Whenever you see it though, you should ask yourself:

• Does this person truly believe what they're saying?
• Of what precisely are they trying to convince me?
• What's their underlying emotion?
• What's their underlying motive?
• Why are they trying so hard to persuade me? 

 Very often those using the R2E2 are trying too hard to rationalize. They're trying to convince both us - and themselves. Something they've done, are planning to do, or something they've said - which they don't believe in 100% (or often not even 50%) - and they're trying to dial up our Empathy so that we agree with them - they want to gain our rapport and support. It's an effort to get a sort of an accomplice.

It's common that the R2E2 can be indicative of, and clustered with other signals of patronizing behavior - sort of a subtle pat on the head - a nicer version of, "please just shut up and listen". These often include situations when there is an expertise disparity between the individuals/groups.

What are some professional settings where the R2E2 is seen more frequently?

• Sales professionals
• Law enforcement
• Politicians
• Attorneys
• Physicians

as well as:

• Pundits
• Con Artists
• Serial Sexual Manipulators
• Narcissists
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (colloquially termed, "Sociopath")

It's profoundly important to note, that as with any nonverbal behavior which may build rapport - if it's over-used, or used out-of-context - these will destroy rapport. Be very cautious of anyone who over-uses the R2E2 (or any body language) - for in such scenarios you are (at best) very likely being manipulated.

0:54.4

This expression, 0.3 seconds prior to the example above is sometimes all you see of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression. 







See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3558: Jack Whitehall, Harrison Ford, Jennifer Lawrence and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3512: Emilia Clarke in "Me Before You"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2868: Queen Elizabeth II, Lena Headey and Game of Thrones

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3260: Cara Delevingne vs. Emilia Clarke in an Eyebrow-Off (plus some Schwarzenegger and Gyllenhaal) Body Language

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3548: Reince Priebus at White House Correspondents' Dinner 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3540: Johnny Manziel's Ego

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

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3498: Donald Trump Mocks Chris Christie when criticizing John Kasich - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTO)

Yesterday in Vienna, Ohio, Donald Trump made an appearance while campaigning for today's primary there.

In an effort to criticize Governor John Kasich, he also dished out the same criticism to Governor Chris Christie - who was on stage with him at that very moment.

A small section of his speech appears above. During 0:29 - 0:31, as he says, "... I hated-ed (stutter) to do that, but I had to make my point ...", Trump displays a Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (aka R2E2).

The Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression is a nonverbal facial signal which may last milliseconds (a microexpression) or several seconds (here it lasts about 2 seconds). Most body language beginners will mistake it for disgust - yet a very different emotion is being expressed (Can you tell the difference?).

It's very important to stress that every human being displays the R2E2 from time to time. However when you see this body language - know that the person is either trying to rationalize - trying to get others to rationalize - or to co-rationalize with him. They have a course of action, idea, opinion, etc., they want someone to take/believe and they're trying hard to get others to see/feel their point of view. The twist is this - very often (depending on the other nonverbal signs with which it is clustered) the R2E2 is a sign that the person displaying it doesn't really believe their own words. Thus it's a beacon of disparity between a person's thought-feelings and what they are saying aloud.

Thus when you see the R2E2, ask yourself: 

Of what precisely is this person trying to convince me? 
Why are they trying so hard to convince me? 
Do they seem to really believe what they are saying? 
What's their claimed motive?
What is another possible motive?
Does their tone of voice seem sincere?
What are their other nonverbal signals telling me?

The R2E2 is an attempt to gain our empathy and our rapport.

This is an excellent example of a nonverbal signal that's used (subconsciously) in an effort convince us. And once again - we all use it, but when you see it often or intensely, approach with caution. There's a can of snake oil nearby.



See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3497: Sasha Obama, Malia Obama, Ryan Reynolds and a State Dinner 

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3154: Marco Rubio's Body Language Tell

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3406: Republican Debate, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio and a Body Language Tell for Insincerity

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2669: Sara Bareilles and the Body Language of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression 

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2643: Is this Hug More Sexual or Affectionate? Student Suspended One Year for Hugging a Teacher

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


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3392: Donald Trump to Republican Jewish Coalition - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

You may have heard of Donald Trump's multiple faux pas (many have called it anti-Semitic) during his speech to the Republican Jewish Coalition earlier today. During the above excerpt, the businessman-turned-politician shows us yet another profound body language tell (Watch the full speech here).

Trumps exemplifies a classic "Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression" (aka R2E2) during the 0:22 segment of the above video, as he says, "... couple ..." ("... It's okay - Yeah, I've been called on that a couple of times too ...").

The R2E2 is a nonverbal signal which may manifest very briefly (as a microexpression or near microexpression) but also for longer duration facial displays (in this example it last for about 0.25 seconds). The vast majority of body language beginners will invariably confuse this with and falsely lump the R2E2 together with that of disgust - however they have completely different meanings (How do you differentiate between these two very similar expressions?).

It's important to stress that every single emotionally-healthy person makes the R2E2 expression once in a while, however when it IS seen, and particularly when it's seen frequently, you should always make the following distinctions:

• Does the person believe what they, themselves are saying?
• What's the over-all feeling of sincerity (Sincerity Quotient) in this moment? 
• What do I feel is their predominant emotion in this moment?
• What is my gut feeling of this person's motive(s) in this moment?
• Why are they putting an extra effort in trying to convince me of something?
• What, specifically, are they trying to convince me of?
• Are they feigning a baring of their "Achilles Heel" and if so, what is it? Why?

Although it's not the case 100% of the time, very often those displaying the R2E2 are trying to rationalize. Moreover much of the time they're trying to convince you of something too - along with their psyche. They very much want you to be a "Co-Rationalizer". Tread carefully when you see the R2E2 - for it's very often used when people are trying too hard to gain your trust, rapport and empathy. 

Remember - every human being uses the R2E2 on occasion. Professionals who tend to use the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression excessively include: physicians, sales professionals, politicians, reporters, law enforcement and attorneys.

Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (R2E2) captured during 0:22

Close-up of above R2E2














See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3391: Tense Exchange Between Mike Allen and Chicago Mayor Emanuel - Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3336: Donald Trump, Kevin McCarthy, Deception and Body Language

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3326: Donald Trump on 60 Minutes - Body Language Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3293: Why is Donald Trump a Better Liar than Most Politicians? - Body Language  

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3247: Barack Obama's Response to Question regarding Revoking Bill Cosby's Presidential Medal of Freedom - Body Language Tells

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2748: Tatia Pilieva's Brilliant Video "First Kiss" - Body Language of Romance and Affection 

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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3356: Anna Faris and Chris Pratt are Dressing their Son Up as a Dinosaur for Halloween - Body Language (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Anna Faris was recently a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live. During her appearance she spoke with significant trepidation regarding her son's costume for Halloween. The three year-old got to pick his costume this year and he chose a T-Rex. This of course is not surprising for most young boys except for one thing. Faris' husband and the boy's father is Chris Pratt - who was the male lead in the recent Jurassic World film. Faris fears some may see her son's costume as her and her husband's attempt at using their child's trick-or-treat experience as a marketing ploy.

0:47

Deep inhalation (with hissing) in conjunction with a mouth of fear and neck of fear

This is indicative of lower levels of fear and social fear rather than true physical fear. People who display this combination of nonverbal signals tend to have significantly higher empathy quotients.

0:49

R2E2 or the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression

Commonly displayed when a person is trying to win another person to their way of thinking - and attempting to get others to  co-rationalize and see their point-of-view.

0:52

Bilateral Hair Adjust with fear mouth. This is a truncated variation of the Hair Adjust Behind Ears. In this shortened version, Faris' fingers do not extend to the back of her ears. Her psyche is attempting to be more assertive - yet (together with another fear display of the face - primarily her mouth), Anna Faris's is not feeling very confident about the ramifications of her son's costume choice.  Intriguingly, when (in other scenarios) the fingers move the hair around to the backs of the ear(s) - the remainder of the facial expression and body language signals - and the emotional mind are all much more confident.

See also:

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2669: Sara Bareilles and the Body Language of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression  

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3256: Katie Holmes on Jimmy Fallon - Body Language Tells


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3128: Cheryl Fernandez-Versini Climbs Kilimanjaro - The Graham Norton Show - Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression with Amplifier - Body Language Tells (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (formerly Cheryl Cole) was recently a guest on The Graham Norton Show. And as with most talk show appearances, it was chock-full of great body language teaching moments - and one in particular (with an amplifier) is highlighted here as she describing her training for her Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

For those who are unfamiliar with the term, a nonverbal amplifier is just what it sounds - highlighting and giving emphasis to a primary nonverbal. It's often helpful to think of it as similar to an adverb with the written or spoken word.

Here the primary body language is the facial configuration of a "Rationalization-Rapport-Empathy-Expression" (abbreviated R2E2). During the segment 1:54 to 1:57 we see Ms. Fernandez-Versini display the R2E2. Many nonverbal novices will confuse this expression with the facial configuration for disgust or contempt - yet they are vastly different emotions (Do you know how to differentiate them?). The R2E2 is used when the speaker is trying to rationalize and/or attempting to get the listener to co-rationalize their behavior, opinions, ideas, actions, etc. The desire for empathy is strong and rapport with the listener is being sought when the R2E2 is being expressed.

Often but not always, the rate and pitch of the speech both increase coincident with the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression - which act as accentuators. In this particular example with Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, these vocal changes are subtle to absent - yet she does have another amplifier - that of the forward sweeping motion (Forward Hand Sweep) with her arms/hands in a display of hyperbolic irony (for about one second during 1:54, see image below and video above). There are other varieties of nonverbal amplifiers as well - can you describe any?

We all display the R2E2 from time to time, yet when you see this expression chronically what should it make you think? How about excessively within one conversation?

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3127: Hillary Clinton's Press Conference and a Body Language Down-regulator of Sincerity

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2193:  Keira Knightley interview re: "Anna Karenina" -  Body Language of "R2E2" Facial Expression

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2341:  Angela Bassett Interview -  Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression  R2E2, Body Language & "Olympus has Fallen"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2669: Sara Bareilles and the Body Language of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2097: Mitt Romney's "No one's ever asked to see my birth certificate" defense - Body Language of Rationalization, Rapport and Empathy 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2312: Bruce Willis' Body Language - Contempt vs. Suppressed Smile vs.  Pseudo Smile vs. Sincere Smile

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3061: Jimmy Fallon Blew a Chance to Date Nicole Kidman   

1:54

R2E2 with
Forward Hand Sweep














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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3111: Dakota Johnson rips into her Mom, Melanie Griffith at Oscars (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

An interesting and awkward family moment was on display last night at the Oscars. Dakota Johnson took her mother to the Academy Awards. Melanie Griffith, an actor in her own right, to everyone's surprise had not yet seen her daughter's first starring role. What follows is a partial body language analysis.

Just as Melanie is asked if she has seen "Fifty Shades of Grey" - Dakota begins to display an "Inward Lip Roll" (ILR). She knows what her mom's answer is going to be and the inward lip roll is (subconsciously) partially suppressing her negative emotions - as well as a more dramatic facial expression (0:36).

A close up of the ILR as it wanes (0:37).

0:40

Dakota is pleading to her mother with mild fear face and elevated central forehead contraction (CFC). This one expression very commonly used when trying to engender empathy in another.

Melanie is tight-lipped, nonverbally projecting, "I don't want to say it ...."

0:41

As her elevated CFC persists,
Dakota's mid-face is projecting a Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression (R2E2) - she's verbally and nonverbally asking her mother to agree with her - at least here, on the red carpet (e.g., Pleeeease!? Mom!)

Melanie is staring - her upper eyelids elevated higher than baseline and with a tight-lipped (now beginning to down-turn) false smile persisting

1:01- 1:02

As Dakota says, "Alright! You don't have to see it [inaudible]" - she displays a Subtle Eye Roll - which projects both her Contempt & Dismissive feelings.

Meanwhile Melanie's mouth is configured in a Tight-Lipped False-Smile while her mid-face is also manifesting Disgust.

1:03

Dakota then Melanie each then turn their heads (and Dakota her back) away from each other - signaling dissociating, distancing, disliking and disagreeing emotional tones.








1:16

Dakota is displaying a forward lip purse when her mother says, "If she tells me to see it, I will go see it."

Lip pursing, in this cluster-context, is a strong nonverbal signal of clandestine disagreement. Dakota does not at all believe her mother will watch her break-out movie. Dakota is also projecting disgust.

Johnson's partial eyelid closure here is an amplifier of her both her disbelief and disgust.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication No. 3110: Scarlett Johansson gets kissed and invaded by John Travolta - An Awkward Moment from the 2015 Oscars

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3102: Movie Portrayal of "Christian Grey" is a Sociopath or Worse

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2603: Sarah Palin's Body Language - She Feels Disgust toward Pope Francis and ... She Tells a Fib

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3056: Jeb Bush Interview - 14 Dec. 2014 - Body Language Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3091: Vladimir Putin has Asperger's Syndrome according to Pentagon Report

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2468:  Princess Kate, Prince William & a New Baby Boy -  Body Language, Rapport & Saving Face

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3061: Jimmy Fallon Blew a Chance to Date Nicole Kidman 

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3064: Pastor Recounts Punching a Child in the Chest


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Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3089: Walter White as "Sorta Greg" - "Say My Name" - Esurance Super Bowl Commercial (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

Bryan Cranston recently reincarnated his role as Walter White during Super Bowl XLIX - even if it was just a few seconds during an Esurance commercial. Playing "sorta Greg" pseudo-pharmacist, the brilliant actor made us laugh, suspended our disbelief, and ... at least in this setting, provided a fantastic forum for learning some body language. The woman playing his customer is also brilliant.

During the 0:25 - 0:26 segment, "sorta Greg" wags his head back and forth as he closes his eyes (when he's saying "... sorry ...") in what is one type of backtracking/correcting expression. This is seen during clarifying scenarios when the speaker is restating himself. It is also seen in contexts where the speaker wants someone to "take it with a grain of salt".

At the 0:26 - 0:27 mark (as he says, "... pharmaceuticals ...") we see "almost Greg" display a "Rationalization-Rapport-Empathy-Expression" (aka R2E2). This classic nonverbal signal shows that the speaker is trying to convince us (and often himself) of something. It's thus a strong sign of rationalization.  He's trying to gain our rapport and empathy. We all make this expression from time to time, yet if it's displayed too often, know that the person's over-all character is insincere and manipulative.

Throughout much of this commercial the woman playing the customer gives an excellent expression of disgust. Her down-turned mouth corners, elevated central lips, flared nostrils, dimpled chin, mid-facial tightening all expertly transmit the emotion of disgust.

What other, less prominent, but important emotion is being projected here?




When we say someone is a good actor - and most of course would call Cranston great - what we REALLY mean (although few realize it at a nuanced level) is that their words, their paralanguage (vocal qualities) and their body language are all highly congruent. When they all agree - it just "feels right" - we recognize it as "good" or "great acting" - and when these three don't agree we say they're not so good, etc. The same instinct and logic can also be applied to interpreting sincerity vs. insincerity or truth vs. deception.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3088: Malcolm Butler at the Moment he Caught His Game-Winning Super Bowl Interception

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2397:  Angelina Jolie on Motherhood & Her Own Mom  Body Language Tells ....

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2669: Sara Bareilles and the Body Language of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2329:  Sheryl Sandberg (COO of Facebook) on 60 Minutes  AND a bit of Mark Zuckerberg -  Two Crucial Body Language Tells

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2603: Sarah Palin's Body Language - She Feels Disgust toward Pope Francis and ... She Tells a Fib

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2868: Queen Elizabeth II, Lena Headey, Game of Thrones and Body Language

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

This is a hilarious and talented guitar solo by Bradley Cooper - albeit with an air guitar - rocking out to an amazing rift in Neil Young's "Down by the River" with Jimmy Fallon last night. Cooper gave us a great example of a Rationalization-Rapport-Empathy-Expression (aka R2E2) during the 2:12 - 2:13 mark in the above video.

Cooper displays a Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression as he says "Louder". The R2E2 is a nonverbal signal which may manifest as a microexpression or near microexpression as well as for even longer durations (here it lasts for about 2 seconds). Most body language rookies will mistake the R2E2 with the expression of disgust - yet they have very different meanings. Do you know how to tell the difference?

We all make this facial expression from time to time during the day without realizing it - yet whenever you see the R2E2, you must ask yourself ....

• What's the underlying emotional cause?
• What exactly is this person trying to convince me of?
• Why are they trying so hard to convince me?
• Do they believe what they are saying?

Although not always, an expressor of the R2E2 is very often trying too hard to rationalize. They're trying to convince us and themselves. They will have an idea or an action which they don't fully believe in - and they're trying to recruit us as co-rationalizers. It's an attempt to up-regulate our empathy and gain our rapport.

Again - we all use the R2E2 occasionally (and I for one WANTED the louder guitar with Bradley's solo) but it's the over use which should set off alarm bells. The R2E2 is dramatically over utilized with sales professionals, law enforcement, politicians, attorneys and even physicians (like driving a car with only 2 gears - there's much less finesse).

It cannot be stressed enough that, as with any body language which may build rapport, what works well in small doses will backfire with larger ones - and the R2E2 is no exception. Rapport will be destroyed. Be very wary of those who over-use the R2E2 - lest you fall victim to manipulation - or worse.

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3059: Kiss Cam - Benny the Bull to the Rescue - Distancing Behavior and Tongue-in-Cheek

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2341:  Angela Bassett Interview -  Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression  R2E2, Body Language & "Olympus has Fallen"

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2193:  Keira Knightley interview re: "Anna Karenina" -  Body Language of "R2E2" Facial Expression

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2669: Sara Bareilles and the Body Language of the Rationalization Rapport Empathy Expression

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

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2982: Politicians Should Never Do This If They Want To Be Elected - Hillary Clinton's Body Language Faux Pas

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2928: Oscar Pistorius, Hugging, Affection and Sincerity

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

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