Body language Flashcards
1
Q
Definition of body language
A
refers to nonverbal communication through gestures, posture, facial expressions and eye movements
2
Q
Why it matters
A
- 55% of communication is nonverbal
- it can convey emotions, intentions and truthfulness more accurately than words
3
Q
7 universal emotions
A
- happiness
- sadness
- anger
- fear
- surprise
- disgust
- contempt
4
Q
Micro expressions
A
- brief, involuntary facial expressions that reveal true emotions before someone consciously controls their response
- a slight smirk when lying or a flash of fear in someones eyes
practical use: reading emotions in negotiations, job interviews or personal relationships
5
Q
Common gestures and meanings
A
- thumbs up (approval, but offensive in some cultures)
- open palms (honesty and openness)
- finger pointing (can be perceived as aggressive)
6
Q
Cultural differences
A
- “Ok” hand sign means “okay” in the US but is offensive in Brazil and Turkey
- nodding means agreement in many cultures but means no in Bulgaria and parts of India
7
Q
Open vs closed posture
A
- arms relaxed, chest open signals confidence and openness
- arms crossed, hunched shoulders suggests defensiveness or discomfort
8
Q
Power poses
A
- standing tall with hands on hips boosts confidence and dominance
- slouching can make someone appear insecure
9
Q
Direct eye contact vs avoiding eye contact
A
- confidence, sincerity, engagement
- dishonesty, nervousness, cultural modesty
*in Western cultures it is seen as confidence but some Asian and Middle Eastern cultures see prolonged eye contact as rude or confrontational
10
Q
Looking up-left vs looking up- right
A
- recalling a memory
- imagining something new
11
Q
Mirroring
A
- subtly copying another persons gestures, posture or tone to build conversation
- creates subconscious bonding and is used by salespeople/therapists
- if someone leans in, mirroring them can make them feel understood or matching speech tempo to create rapport
12
Q
Signs of lying
A
- inconsistent facial expressions vs verbal words
- touching the face, covering the mouth, looking away
- delayed responses or over explaining
- fake smiles
- sudden changes in voice tone or speed
13
Q
How to spot deception in interviews
A
- ask a question, then observe their initial reaction
- look for nonverbal hesitation before answering
14
Q
Applying body language in job interviews/business
A
- confident posture and strong handshake
- maintaining open gestures to appear approachable
- mirroring the interviewer subtly for rapport
15
Q
Applying body language in social situations and dating
A
- eye contact builds attraction
- leaning in shows interest, leaning away signals disengagement
16
Q
Applying body language in public speaking and leadership
A
- hand gestures emphasize key points
- walking around the stage creates engagement
