Prohibited gestures and barriers

Hands in pockets (insecurity/lying).

Putting hands in pockets is one of the most counterproductive behaviors in the public arena.

This act sends immediate negative signals: it can be interpreted as unprofessionalism, disinterest or, at worst, concealment of information.

Depending on which hand is hidden (dominant or non-dominant), the psychology of body language suggests that either the emotional or the logical facet is being protected, which denotes insecurity.

In addition, hiding the hands prevents them from accompanying and reinforcing the speech, leaving the voice without its main visual support.

If both hands are hidden, the audience unconsciously perceives that the speaker is afraid or lying, activating the distrust alarms of the "primitive brain" that needs to see the hands to feel safe.

Even if the intention is to appear relaxed, the result is often an image of laziness or restrained nervousness.

Arms crossed and hands behind

Crossing the arms over the chest creates a literal physical barrier between the sender and the receiver.

Although it may feel like a comfortable or "resting" position to the speaker, to the audience it is an unmistakable sign of closure, defensiveness or rejection of the interaction.

This posture blocks empathy and suggests that the speaker is unwilling to open up or feels threatened by the environment.

Similarly, placing the hands behind the back ("prisoner" or military posture) hides the tools of communication and may project an authoritarian rigidity or, alternatively, a desire to hide nervousness in the hands.

Another barrier variant is the use of objects such as bags or folders held in front of the body as a protective shield.

All these "barrier" gestures should be consciously dismantled to allow for fluid and transparent communication, where the torso is exposed and vulnerable, which paradoxically projects greater strength and security.

Summary

Hands in pockets convey lack of professionalism, disinterest or concealment of information. They prevent the limbs from reinforcing speech, leaving the voice without primary visual support.

Crossing arms creates a literal physical barrier indicating closure or rejection. Although comfortable for the speaker, the audience perceives it as a defensive signal.

Placing hands behind the back projects authoritarian stiffness or conceals nervousness. Using objects as shields should be avoided, allowing for fluid, transparent and very confident communication at all times today.