Methodology of Analysis

The importance of Context

It is absolutely fundamental to understand that body language must always be interpreted within its context. This is the golden rule.

A gesture, analyzed in isolation, lacks reliable meaning and can lead to erroneous conclusions. For example, crossing the arms is an ambiguous gesture.

It could mean that the person is closed to discussion or defensive; however, it could also simply mean that the room temperature is low and he or she is cold.

It is imperative to analyze the situation in which the gesture occurs. A gesture in a professional meeting will not necessarily have the same meaning as in a social gathering.

Searching for Clusters (Groups of gestures)

Rather than relying on a single signal, an accurate analysis requires looking for "clusters" or groups of gestures. No valid conclusion can be drawn from a single gesture.

For example, if a person scratches his or her face once, chances are that he or she was simply itching.

However, if that gesture is repeated and, in addition, is accompanied by other signs of stress (such as avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, rubbing the neck, or adopting a closed posture), then we can be much more confident that the person is experiencing discomfort or anxiety.

You cannot understand a sentence by analyzing a single word.

Consistency vs. Contradiction

We must analyze the coherence between the verbal channel (the words) and the multiple nonverbal channels (body, face, voice).

If we focus only on the words we hear, we may miss a completely contradictory message being sent by the speaker's physiology.

For example, if a colleague verbally states "Yes, I totally agree," but while saying so, subtly shakes his head or crosses his arms tightly, there is an incongruity.

In these cases, the rule is to rely on the nonverbal signal, as the body often reveals the true emotion or intent.

Gesture Dimensions (Amplitude, Speed, Symmetry)

Finally, when analyzing gestures (especially illustrators that accompany speech), we must pay attention to their technical qualities.

The amplitude of the gesture (how large or expansive the movements are) usually indicates the level of emotion or enthusiasm of the speaker.

The speed of the gesture relates to self-control; fast movements may indicate nervousness or passion, while slow movements suggest calmness or deliberation.

Repetition of a gesture is used, consciously or unconsciously, to emphasize a point.

Symmetry (if both sides of the body, e.g., both hands, make similar movements) suggests equanimity and sincerity.

Finally, synchrony is vital: the gesture should occur at the same time as the word it supports.

A gesture that appears after the word is often perceived as false or insincere.

Summary

The golden rule is to always interpret body language within its context. An isolated gesture lacks reliable meaning; crossing the arms can be defensive or simply cold.

Look for "clusters" or groups of gestures. A single gesture does not allow you to draw valid conclusions; you need to look at several stress signals together, such as scratching and averting one's gaze.

Analyze the consistency between the verbal and nonverbal channels. If there is contradiction, such as saying "yes" while shaking your head, always rely on the nonverbal signal.