Rubbing the neck with the palm means. The meaning of gestures associated with the touch of hands on various parts of the face

According to research, only a tenth of the information a person conveys in words. The rest is made up of gestures, facial expressions and intonation. The first intuitive “scan” of a person takes about 10 seconds. People do not always say what they think, but the body does not know how to lie. hidden feelings find a way out through gestures. The psychology of non-verbal communication is very broad and multifaceted. Learning to understand human gestures and their meanings will make it much easier to find out the truth.

Gesture classification

When the emotional background of a person rises, he stops monitoring his body. But when trying to unravel the thoughts of others, it is necessary to take into account situational factors in order for the judgment to be correct. For example, if a person crosses his arms over his chest in severe frosts, this can only mean that he is cold, and not secrecy and isolation.

Human gestures are divided into types:

Common;

emotional;

ritual;

Individual.

Hand movements

When studying human gestures and their meanings, special attention should be paid to the hands. It is their movements that most communication. Many of them have become so familiar and mundane that they are no longer noticed. But even simple gestures, when examined in more detail, can be entertaining.

Handshake

When one person greets another, manner can say a lot. Powerful people serve it palm down. When respect is present, the hand is brought edge down. If a person is compliant and knows how to find compromises, he holds it out with his palm up. Morally weak people insecure and very weak, and aggressive ones, on the contrary, very strongly, at this time their arm is fully extended and tense.

Open and closed gestures

Thinking about how to understand a person by gestures, you need to know that they are open and closed. The first is understood as those movements when a person spreads his arms to the side or shows his palms. They indicate that he is ready for contact and open to communication.

Closed gestures include those that help a person build a psychological barrier. The body can be closed not only by hands, but also by foreign objects. Such manipulations indicate that a person does not trust the interlocutor and is not ready to open up to him. It can be interlocked fingers or crossed arms.

Studying human gestures and their meanings, experts came to the conclusion that people who put their palms on their palms or clasp their hands behind their backs feel superior to others and have high conceit. Aggression can be indicated by hands in a pocket, when at the same time thumb stayed outside.

Touching the face

If during a conversation the interlocutor constantly touches his face, ears or neck, this should alert. Most likely he's lying. Hand movements near the mouth may indicate that a person lacks support and approval. But external factors should also be taken into account: perhaps the interlocutor scratches his eyes and touches his nose because of a cold or an allergy.

People who are passionate about something often prop their cheeks. If a person scratches his chin, then he is in the process of making some important decision.

slopes

To find mutual understanding, it is important to know what facial expressions and gestures of a person indicate. The psychology of non-verbal communication is the key to success. Many movements are carried out on a subconscious level, so it is almost impossible to control them.

When a person feels sympathy for the interlocutor and is ready to make contact with him, he usually leans towards him. If he is sitting, the body can move forward, but the legs remain in place. Leaning to one side, he demonstrates a friendly attitude. When the interlocutor leans back in his chair, he may have gotten bored with the conversation and lost interest in it.

personal boundaries

Why do you need to know how to read human gestures? People have certain rules concerning their personal territory and space. A person who loves to break them and invade other people's borders, loves to show strength and show off in public. Confident people often take a little more space: they stretch their legs, comfortably position their hands. The shackled person tries to assume the fetal position.

Not everyone is ready to let the interlocutor into their personal space. If a person internally tenses, crosses his arms and moves back, then he is not ready for close contact.

If a person is far away...

A person who becomes far away from the interlocutor seems arrogant. But in fact, he is simply afraid to get close to others. It can annoy him appearance or a topic of conversation, and he wants to quickly end the conversation. Often people who are accustomed to distance themselves experience fear in their souls.

Copying movements

Wanting to figure out how to understand a person by gestures, you should pay attention to whether he copies other people's movements. When the interlocutor imitates, this indicates that he feels sympathy and is positive.

rocking

Such body movements, as well as the corresponding gestures and facial expressions of a person, speak of internal restlessness or impatience. In moments of excitement, adults can sway from heel to toe to calm down a little. But the interlocutor is unlikely to like this behavior: it distracts and confuses the speaker, preventing him from concentrating.

fidgeting

When people get nervous, their body can give out a lot of different information. Fidgeting speaks about no less than facial expressions and gestures. When a person feels insecure, he makes various movements, such as wringing his hands or fidgeting in a chair. This helps him take his mind off an unpleasant situation.

If the interlocutor is constantly fiddling with his tie, perhaps he lied or simply wants to leave the society in which he is.

head tilts

A tilted head is a sign that the interlocutor is interested in the conversation, he is ready to listen and is interested in continuing it. Such gestures of a person and their meanings are unambiguous and indicate that he is completely focused on the perception of information.

Head nodding and jerky movements

Psychologists have long noticed that if a person does not like what he hears, he unconsciously makes a sharp movement of his head in the opposite direction from the speaker. Thus, he creates a barrier between himself and the source of discomfort.

People who constantly nod in response to the speech of the interlocutor are accustomed to pleasing everyone. They really want to please everyone and get the approval of others. As a rule, these people lack self-confidence and are afraid of being rejected.

If a person shakes his head, then this is how he expresses internal disagreement with the interlocutor.

Downcast and upturned head

A person who talks with his head down is modest and insecure, he suffers from low self-esteem. Perhaps in this moment he is depressed or deeply unhappy.

A raised head and a raised chin are a sign of aggressiveness and hostility. Perhaps a person feels an impending threat and is ready to go to any extremes in order to protect himself.

If the interlocutor constantly throws his head back, this may indicate contempt or arrogance.

scratching

This movement does not matter only when a person is ill with something. In other situations, it is an indicator that the interlocutor feels awkward or insecure. It is much easier to find contact with others if you know what facial expressions and gestures of a person mean. The psychology of non-verbal communication will help to resolve the situation without bringing it to a conflict. Sometimes people scratch their heads if they don't like something. By offering the interlocutor an alternative option in time, you can avoid disputes and criticism.

Often a person scratches himself if he does not understand the question. By changing the wording and explaining in more detail what is required of him, you can give him time to prepare a response.

Shoulder movements

Such gestures may indicate that a person is indifferent to what is happening, or he is lying. It can also be regarded as uncertainty in the words spoken. During a untruthful story, people shrug their shoulders very quickly. This twitching helps them pull themselves together and look collected and calm. Raised shoulders are a sign of insecurity.

flirting gestures

When a person wants to attract the attention of the opposite sex, he touches his hair or adjusts his clothes. Sometimes there is increased gesticulation and excitement. Women can twist a lock of hair around their finger or adjust their makeup. Men, when communicating with a lady who arouses their sympathy, want to appear strong and self-confident. They put their hands on their belts or put them in their pockets, play with the belt, attracting attention.

Disguised gestures

They help a person achieve the desired level of calm and security. Instead of directly crossing the arms, various objects are used: cufflinks, watch strap or bracelets. But the result of these manipulations is always the same: one arm is across the body, thus creating protection. This indicates nervousness.

Hand dangling

For full communication, it is very important to understand what human gestures mean. If during a conversation one of his hands dangles randomly, draws some lines or describes circles, this may indicate that the interlocutor is deceiving.

If a person wants to express criticism or is dissatisfied with what is happening, he often takes this position: one hand props up the chin, and the index finger is straightened. The other hand can support the elbow. If, together with this, one or two eyebrows are lowered, then inside the person clearly does not approve of the interlocutor.

Neck rubbing

When a person rubs his ear or neck during communication, most likely he does not fully understand what is required of him. His assurances that everything is clear to him are a lie. Of course, if such actions are not caused by yesterday's draft and pain.

Mouth covered by hand

The friction of the century can also indicate that the interlocutor is telling a lie. If the deception is quite serious, a person can look away or lower his eyes, stroking his neck or ears. But all these signs should be considered in a complex.

  • People who want to emphasize their unshakable positions can make firm hand gestures to emphasize the transition from one topic to another. Photos clearly demonstrate such gestures of people.

  • If the situation is very tense, it is worth using hand movements to defuse it a little. Serious phrases can be illustrated with cheerful gestures. This will cheer up the audience a little and charge the atmosphere with positive.
  • Do not become a clown and make ridiculous movements. Human gestures and facial expressions should draw attention to the main conversation, and not distract from it. In addition, they must be understandable to all present.

Hands, like other parts of the body, sometimes say a lot more about a person, his thoughts and emotions than he expresses verbally. But let's note hand gestures cannot be considered separately from posture, facial expressions, gaze and other non-verbal signs. Any signal given by the body goes in a complex.

For example, open palms, but a lowered look speaks of defeat, and not of openness. In the article, we will focus on those hand gestures that most clearly speak of certain thoughts or feelings of a person. Marked "Nota Bene!" those hand movements that should be interpreted very carefully are highlighted.

Feelings and desires in the hands of the interlocutor

If a person uses his index finger (points to someone real or imaginary), this indicates his desire to dominate and lead those with whom he is currently communicating, even if the topic of conversation is not related to relationships.

Dominant gestures are also:

  • put your hands in your pockets, while the thumb remains outside.
  • wedge-shaped hands thumbs also remain outside. Note that if a person shows his interlocutor his thumbs - he wants power over him, perhaps even wants to achieve his goal with the help.
  • fingertips are connected by a "house".
  • a strong handshake, in which the palm rests on top of the palm of the interlocutor.
  • hands resting on the sides. So are the police, parents, educators and ... people who are unsure of themselves. This sign does not so much express the desire to dominate, but rather speaks of the desire to look more confident. A person who wants to be wider, bigger, more noticeable in the eyes of the interlocutor often rests his hands on his waist.

If the interlocutor, in addition to these gestures, also has a ring on his thumb, this is another signal of a constant desire to dominate and lead.

Openness and willingness to cooperate? Yes, if this is a frequent demonstration of palms during a friendly conversation, in which the person's gaze is fixed on the interlocutor. This ancient sign “look, I am without a weapon” is enhanced if, during a conversation, a person unbuttons his jacket or sweater, takes off his watch, rings, bracelets.

Many sincere, friendly natures like to wear a ring on their little fingers. This is another sign of openness of nature. If the palms are shown in conversation, but there is no eye contact, then this is a signal of surrender or a desire to evade responsibility.

Protection

This sign has many variations. We will look at general trends. Usually, if a person is preparing to defend himself from an attack or is simply afraid of an attack, then he takes a pose in which he “covers” parts of the body with his hands. It can be the chest, throat, abdomen, genitals.

Firmly clasping one hand with the other hand, a person also expresses excitement, as if he is trying to “pull himself together” in the literal sense of the words. The higher the hand rests on the hand, the greater the excitement experienced by the interlocutor. It is often possible to observe how schoolchildren or students hold the elbow with the other with one hand.

They are trying so hard to contain the excitement and protect themselves from possible “attacks” by the teacher.

This does not apply to the case when the hand clasps the other hand behind the back during a walk or conversation. Such a gesture speaks of self-confidence. The man opened all the most vulnerable parts of his body, hiding his hands - he trusts the interlocutor and is not afraid of him.

Distrust, doubt is expressed with the help of "prayerfully" folded hands. Also, the interlocutor does not really believe the words that he hears if he covers his mouth, nose with his hands, rubs his lips and eyelids with his fingers.

This is aggression, nervousness, if you see how the interlocutor clenches his fists, pinches his palms. A person who collects fluff from clothes does not agree with what the opponent says, he is not ready to defend his position, but there is aggression.

Uncertainty, overexcitation are expressed in the desire to lean on something, while pulling the object in the hands or playing with it. A person wants to calm himself, to become stronger with the help of things, material support.

An insecure person during the conversation uses only a few gestures that are repeated often and do not depend on what is being discussed at this particular moment. He simply, for example, regularly rubs the wrist of one hand, touches his pocket or cuff, adjusts his collar.

On guard for security

Cheerful cheerful person, open and willing to communicate some good news usually actively and chaotically gestures. The same gestures are used by manipulators. Be careful if someone you don't know very well is talking to you, actively gesturing and looking at you point-blank.

If at the same time he casually touches your clothes, bag, shoulders - this is most likely a scammer who is trying to win favor with an imaginary positive.

A person who, during a conversation, rubs the tips of the thumb and forefinger or middle finger, wants to benefit from the interlocutor. He will either ask for money, or he wants to offer a deal or a product. Rubbing the palms also indicates that the interlocutor is thinking about the money side of the conversation.

The interlocutor often wants to literally cover with his hands. It can cover the mouth, nose, scratch the bridge of the nose, eyes or ears. When a person resorts to lies, the body experiences stress, discomfort. Often this just provokes a slight, barely noticeable itching on the face.

Closing the mouth (not necessarily with the hands itself - it can be a book, a sheet of paper, a spoon) is a subconscious desire to hide from responsibility for untruth (remember the oldest stories about Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, the one who lied hid).

Hands always reflect thoughts and desires. Note that this does not apply to professional speakers, coaches, teachers, actors. These people learn the “language” of the hands, so it is often very difficult to understand them through observation of hands and gestures.

But ordinary person can be read by hand. But the ability to correctly guess the movements of the hands requires knowledge of the theory, practical exercises and observation.

Our article is just a small guide. Much more can be found in The Language of Mind by Peter Collet, Body Language by Alan Pease, and others.

In the process of direct communication with each other, people use not only words, but also non-verbal signals. Hand gestures, facial expressions, body position in space - all this can tell about the interlocutor no less than he is ready to tell himself. We propose to analyze the meaning of gestures in communication between people and their interpretation from the point of view of specialists in the field of psychology.

What does a handshake say

The handshake is a non-verbal gesture used in many cultures as a sign of greeting. Often it also indicates the end of communication or the achievement of an agreement. This gesture is characteristic for the most part of men, although business etiquette allows ladies to resort to it at the beginning and end of negotiations if representatives of the opposite sex participate in them. The woman always extends her hand first.

By itself, this gesture can tell a lot about the interlocutor. strong-willed, open man greets with a firm handshake, squeezing the interlocutor's hand quite strongly. People who are not too confident show a sluggish gesture in which the hand is relaxed and the hand is located below. Such a handshake characterizes a person without initiative, lazy, not inclined to accept independent solutions. Touching the interlocutor's hand, accompanied by slight squeezing, can also speak of a person's delicacy, his ability to keep his distance. If, after a short greeting, the interlocutor puts his hands behind his back, or puts them in his pockets, in this way he demonstrates superiority.

Open people stretch out their hand to their "vis-a-vee", bending it at the elbow and wrist only slightly. Secretive or deceitful, on the contrary, try to keep the limb bent. Their forearm remains pressed to the body, while the hand is directed almost vertically. If, during a handshake, such a person tries to squeeze the interlocutor's hand down, this characterizes him as cruel and rather domineering. Independent individuals try to maintain the maximum distance, with little to no bending of the hand when shaking hands.

scratching

Any small and fussy hand gestures betray excitement, uncertainty or a desire to hide the truth. If the speaker scratches his neck on the side, this may mean that he is voicing a thought in which he himself is not completely sure. Such a gesture on the part of the listener indicates his distrust or desire to comprehend what was said more deeply.

Touching the earlobe, scratching and rubbing it during a conversation, a person expresses his desire to speak out. He delicately waits for a convenient moment when he can join the conversation, but at the same time he expresses impatience in every possible way, sometimes even raising his hand, like a schoolboy in a lesson.

Arms crossed on chest

It is generally accepted that crossed arms and legs are a kind of energy protection that people resort to in various life situations. There are many gestures with which a person closes himself from the interlocutor or the world around him. We propose to consider the most common of them.

  1. The first pose is crossing the arms in front of the chest. The forearms are connected together, while the hands can wrap around the shoulders or press against the body. People often take this position in unfamiliar places where they do not feel completely safe.
  2. The posture in which the interlocutor crosses his arms over his chest indicates a negative attitude towards what is happening and may mean unwillingness to discuss a topic. Sometimes distrust of what a person is hearing causes the person to cross their arms over their chest. A similar gesture is used by people who want to hide information. The position of the body, when the arms crossed on the chest are combined with the palms clenched into fists, should be considered as a state of defense, extreme tension. Flushed cheeks and constricted pupils indicate a readiness to fight back.
  3. Public figures rarely openly show gestures that can betray their nervousness or desire to hide something. Meanwhile, they also tend to use such energy protection. Distinguishing camouflaged crosses is not difficult. Ladies usually touch their wrist, turn the bracelet on their hand, pull the clasp on the watch. A man can straighten cufflinks or cuffs. A similar gesture is when a person holds an object at chest level with both hands. It can be a book pressed to the chest or a folder with papers, a bouquet of flowers, a glass of wine.

Clasped fingers

With the fingers clasped in the lock, the hands can lie in front of you or on your knees, or fall along the body if this is a standing position. Behind such a gesture lies disappointment and hidden hostility if a person sits with his hands placed in front of him or brought them closer to his face. At the same time, the higher the hands are raised, the stronger the negative feelings. Sometimes such a gesture is perceived as attention to the interlocutor, because the person sitting opposite can smile and even nod. But this is an erroneous impression, with feigned facial expressions, the interlocutor is just trying to hide a negative attitude towards what is happening.

What does the gesture "hands behind the back" mean?

The position of the body, when the person's arms are laid back and closed behind the back, is associated with a demonstration of superiority. An even posture, a developed chest and straightened shoulders indicate that the individual is quite satisfied with his position and is confident in himself. This gesture can also be seen as high degree confidence in the interlocutor. Most likely, the person feels quite comfortable, does not feel any threat. This gesture is characterized by the arrangement of the palms on top of each other.

If a person puts his hands behind his back, clasping his wrist or forearm with one hand, this means that he is excited and tries to control himself. Moreover, the higher the capture, the stronger the emotions experienced by the individual and the more difficult it is to restrain them. Hands held behind the back can be combined with other gestures, such as scratching the back of the head. This indicates self-doubt, a feeling of awkwardness. In this case, hiding his hands from the interlocutor, a person tries to hide the state of stress, concern or excitement.

hands in pockets

Many of us, even as children, had to hear the remark of our parents: “Take your hands out of your pockets, this is not decent.” Indeed, a person who hides his brushes deeper during a conversation can hardly be called well-mannered. But often such a gesture betrays a desire to hide something. Most likely, the interlocutor does not say much, frankly lies, or his reaction to the conversation does not correspond to the one demonstrated.

A similar reaction is also observed in shy people who simply do not know where to put their hands during a conversation and are afraid that extra gestures will betray their nervousness. This is not difficult to understand, since such a person behaves stiffly, speaks little and reluctantly, keeps his shoulders down, and his gaze is turned down.

If during communication the interlocutor squeezes clenched fists into his pockets, it means that he is overwhelmed by anger and rage. The gesture means that it is difficult for a person to control negative emotions. He has exhausted all verbal arguments and is ready to move on to physical action. Usually, the threat is also reflected in facial expressions: the eyes are narrowed, the cheekbones are tense, the teeth are clenched.

Hand gestures with emphasis on thumbs

If the thumbs are sticking up, such a gesture indicates a desire to dominate. With such a non-verbal signal, a man makes it clear to the lady that he is interested in her. He demonstrates his superiority and social status placing your palms in your trouser pockets or behind your belt. At the same time, the thumbs unequivocally indicate the direction where the object of male pride and dignity is actually located. Such a gesture can be regarded as a desire to please, conquer and conquer.

If we do not consider the gesture in a sexual context, then we can say that the hands in the pockets and the thumbs outside are a demonstration of the power of power and superiority. Another dominance gesture is as follows: arms crossed over the chest and thumbs pointing up. Authority and a sense of superiority simply overwhelm the individual if he adopts such a pose.

When a person tightly clasps his shoulders with his hands, raising his thumbs, lifts his chin and looks into the face of the interlocutor, this indicates that he is confident in his own rightness, does not want to hear objections. Curiously, such dominance gestures involving the thumbs are used by both men and women.

Demonstration of open hands

Open palms are associated with honesty of intentions. If research is to be believed, business people who don't use hand gestures are less likely to do so. People trust less those who keep their hands closed in front of them, believing that they are not completely honest, trying to hide something.

A person asking for something is more likely to achieve his goal if he accompanies his words with a gesture, with palms turned up. Such a gesture is more conducive, because it does not pose a threat. If the interlocutor sees the back of the hand, then the request will be perceived as an indication and may cause an antagonistic attitude.

What does the hands pressed to the chest mean

When a person declares his love or expresses sympathy, he puts his hand to his chest, as if saying that his words come from the heart. Often, those who want to convince the interlocutor of the absence of malicious intent resort to such a technique. Behind this gesture is a desire to show the sincerity of feelings, but this does not always correspond to the real intentions of the speaker.

Connecting fingers together, with divorced palms, talking man wants to show his confidence and knowledge in the matter. Perhaps he wants to emphasize significant moments his speech or wants to convince the interlocutor of his innocence. If at the same time the speaker's head is slightly thrown back, this can be regarded as a feeling of superiority.

This gesture has two options; when the fingertips point up or down. The first is usually used by people who want to express their thoughts, and the second by those who are listening. In the latter case, the gesture is regarded as negative and means that the interlocutor has his own opinion about what was said. It is no longer possible to convince him, because, as in the first case, such a position of the hands indicates confidence in his decision.

Hands spread palms up

A gesture, when a person, when communicating, shows his palms turned to the interlocutor or a group of people, he seems to say: “I will be frank with you.” This is a non-verbal signal that sets you up for openness. It should be noted that such a technique is often used by dishonest people who want to inspire confidence in themselves. Therefore, it is necessary to interpret such non-verbal gestures taking into account facial expressions and behavior. If the interlocutor has nothing to hide, he holds himself naturally, his face is relaxed, his eyebrows are raised, and his arms are wide apart.

Laying hands behind the head

The habit of throwing hands behind the head is characteristic of self-confident people who love to show their superiority. This gesture annoys many on a subconscious level, because it immediately betrays a snob in the interlocutor. Laying hands behind the head during the conversation is a gesture demonstrating confidence and superiority. If at the same time a person sits in a relaxed position, crossing his legs, then you have an amateur. As a rule, such a gesture is used when communicating with subordinates or equals in status.

The origin of such a posture is unknown, but psychologists are sure that in this way a person seems to sink into an imaginary chair, while relaxing with his whole body. Such a manner of sitting does not always carry a negative meaning. Often a person, tired from work or prolonged sitting, throws his hands on the back of his head, stretching his whole body. With such a gesture, he demonstrates that he feels quite comfortable in your company.

Most people touch their face while talking. Such gestures might look like:

  • chin stroking,
  • rubbing of the bridge of the nose or eyelids,
  • touching the mouth with a hand or various objects,
  • touching temples with fingers,
  • cheek support with the palm of the hand.

Most often, such movements hide a desire to hide the truth or, on the contrary, distrust of the speaker. It is best to consider such gestures in combination with human facial expressions, since the same touch can have different meanings.

For example:

  1. A gesture like chin stroking talks about making a decision. If at the same time the interlocutor uses the thumb, he is sure that he controls the situation completely. Nervous rubbing of the lower part of the face with the palm of the hand indicates that the proposed version of the person is not very satisfied, but an alternative has not yet been found.
  2. Touching the lower lip demonstrates interest in a conversation or interlocutor. In this case, a person can draw along the line of the mouth with one finger, actively rub this area. The most direct listeners even pull back or curl their lower lip. Ladies, in order to attract men's attention to themselves, can run their lips not only with their hands, but also with the tip of their tongue.
  3. Many children enjoy on a subconscious level. For example, fingers in mouth- a gesture that looks quite cute and means that the child is in need of approval and support from others. However, similar movements are sometimes made by adults. In their case, such gestures carry the same semantic meaning as in children.
  4. Some gestures that express emotions and feelings involve the use of various objects. For example, you should pay attention to the fact that the interlocutor puts a pen to his mouth. If the interlocutor says something, it may be a lie. If he listens to you, then this gesture expresses distrust. However, such actions may have another reason. Some bite on a pencil or pen while thinking about a problem.
  5. A fairly common posture during a conversation when hand props cheek or chin. These gestures look about the same, but they are interpreted differently. If the interlocutor listens carefully, resting his chin on his hand, it is most likely that it is more convenient for him to comprehend what he heard. But when the listener relaxes his cheek with his hand, and his eyes are distracted, most likely he is bored and looks forward to the end of the conversation.
  6. An expression of disbelief looks like twisting of the earlobe, frequent touching of the eyes or corners of the lips. This is also indicated by the index finger, with which the listener props up the cheek. Raising the index finger to the temple, a person demonstrates a critical attitude. Perhaps he feels distrust, or is not satisfied with the arguments given, analyzes what he heard, suspecting a dirty trick.
  7. Gestures such as rubbing of the neck or ear talk about unwillingness to listen more or that the topic is not very pleasant for the interlocutor. In the latter case, the person often assumes a closed posture, crossing their legs or arms. He may also clasp his hands in a castle, fencing himself off from communication, or stand up abruptly, thereby demonstrating that the conversation is over.

What gestures indicate deceit

When a person tells a lie, it can be calculated by his gestures and facial expressions. Of course, it is unlikely that anyone will become very nervous, embellishing events a little. But if we are talking about a major deception or a desire to hide a serious misconduct, then answering direct questions, a person is unlikely to be able to hide all emotions.

A liar may be betrayed by trembling hands, an immediate desire for a sip of water, or the hastily lighting of a cigarette. To hide a lie, the interlocutor will look away or, on the contrary, look intently into your eyes, demonstrating that he is honest with you.

A person who tells a lie begins to blink frequently, make unnecessary movements, such as shifting papers. It is believed that rubbing the nose also speaks of insincerity, especially if a person does this action several times in a row. If the speaker's mouth is covered with a hand, it is also likely that he is lying. It is worth paying attention to such a gesture as rubbing the eyelids. Often he also betrays a lie, although perhaps the interlocutor himself does not trust you too much. The desire to close one's mouth, as well as the touch of fingers on the lips, are gestures that signify deceit.

Conclusion

It is worth remembering that when non-verbal communication every gesture matters, since it is perceived by the interlocutor, often on a subconscious level. Maybe you just like to keep your hands in your pockets or sit comfortably with your hands clasped. However, interlocutors or business partners will draw their own conclusions from this.

Human facial expressions perfectly betray deception. We may try to hide our true feelings behind a fake smile or deadpan tone of voice, but involuntary movements reveal true emotions that we do not want to show. Knowing about the "secret" muscles will be your advantage when communicating with other people.

Covers mouth with hand

This is one of those gestures that has been preserved in an adult since childhood. A small child, who has been caught lying by his parents, very often instinctively brings both hands to his mouth and clamps his mouth tightly with them. A signal is triggered in the head - to prevent bad words from breaking out or finding an excuse: “I didn’t say that!” We often carry this habit throughout our lives. An adult deceiver may cover his mouth tightly with his hand or only put a few fingers to his lips. These movements testify that the person is telling a lie. But if the interlocutor covers his mouth with his hand when you speak, he clearly suspected you of lying.

touches the nose

Continuation of the previous maneuver: at the last moment, pull yourself up and, instead of the mouth, lightly touch the tip of the nose. Or maybe it's Pinocchio's syndrome, with which a boy or girl was intimidated in childhood?

Tret eyelid

If you think that at the moment of repentance, a man rubs his eyes, trying to hold back tears - you are mistaken. He brazenly lies about where he spent the night before. And this movement betrays a deceiver in him. The explanation for this is quite simple: our cunning ally - the brain is trying to evade responsibility and avoid the interlocutor's testing gaze, hence the reflex - we automatically begin to rub the eyelid. Another physiological explanation: liars have constricted pupils, and the body automatically wants to hide this from strangers.

Averts eyes

Many scientists say: if you want to understand if you are lying, you need to focus on the upper part of the face, namely, on the eyes, eyebrows and forehead of the opponent. As a rule, the gaze of the interlocutor is very "eloquent". By the way, if during a conversation a person either looks at you or looks away, this does not mean at all that he is lying. Perhaps he simply cannot simultaneously develop his thought and observe what is happening. Consider how long this will take. If he does not look at you for at least half the time of the dialogue, this is an unkind sign, you should start to doubt his sincerity. As a rule, if the gaze is directed downward, this means that the person is sad, to the side - disgust, down and to the side - guilt and shame.

rolls her eyes

The eyes are the mirror of the soul. Another confirmation of this is the movement of the eyeballs at the time of the conversation. It is practically beyond conscious control. Before trying to determine by the eyes whether a partner is lying or not lying, it would be nice to know his usual manner of behaving when communicating. For starters, you can arrange a simple check. Ask him a neutral question, to which he is sure to answer without slyness. Say, what did he eat for breakfast today? When you understand where a person is looking when speaking the truth, move on to the topic that interests you. If, when answering a simple question, the interlocutor looked up and to the left (he reproduced the answer from memory), and when answering the one you were interested in, he looked up and to the right, then this is a possible sign that you did not hear the truth.

Blinking frequently

Usually, any person blinks at a frequency of 6-8 times per minute, which does not cause any discomfort to the interlocutors. If we try to hide our thoughts and feelings from others, we start to blink more often. This is an involuntary reaction that always accompanies any emotional arousal.

Relaxes shirt collar

Absolutely cinematic sketch: a lump in the throat and an unbuttoned shirt collar. Scientists have found that any person, and especially a man, feels a lie on a physical level. It causes itching and discomfort in the facial muscles, and we automatically try to scratch the disturbing place in order to calm the nerves. Most often this happens in a situation where the liar is inexperienced and is sure that his deceit will be quickly figured out. Another treacherous reaction of the body - it "throws into the heat." The deceiver has beads of sweat on his neck when he feels that you have suspected something was wrong. Be alert. The same gesture can also indicate approaching aggression. When the interlocutor is very annoyed with something and at the same time pulls the collar from the neck to cool it fresh air and suppress anger. Look at the situation.

scratches ear

Another itchy clue is earlobe rubbing, pinna flexion, or light scratching. This is done involuntarily by people who are forced to tell a lie, but to themselves - this does not give any pleasure. This is a modification of the gesture of a small child, who plugs his ears so as not to listen to the reproaches of his parents.

Holds fingers or objects in mouth

Yes, we agree, it sounds strange, but it looks ridiculous. Nevertheless, this is one of the stupid habits of people who lie from time to time. There is an opinion that this is our attempt to return to the cloudless time of infancy, when children often suck their fingers to calm down. The role of "fingers" already in adulthood can be played by objects: cigarettes, pens, darling glasses ... The liar desperately needs support.

game with glasses

People who wear glasses often use them to hide their true thoughts and emotions. There are many options to get away from unwanted conversation. You can turn the glasses in your hands, wipe the glasses with a cloth, breathe on the lenses, put them in a case, look for a long time in your purse, etc. It’s better not to ask a man or girlfriend to answer an important question for you with all frankness if you see what a person has begun to do manipulation with glasses - he obviously evades the answer, which he needs time to think about. As soon as this item is left alone - take the initiative in your own hands. The interlocutor appreciated your tact.

Facial asymmetry

When a friend is happy that you are getting married / pregnant / bought a fur coat / met Brad Pitt, see how symmetrically the joy is reflected on her face. In particular, disgust, fear, and anger are more prominent on the right side of the face, while joy is more prominent on the left. But for lefties it's the other way around. If it seems to you that the face of a friend has become asymmetrical, the emotions are insincere.

And we have already considered. Now about the most interesting and difficult thing - about the meaning of facial gestures. If all the previous sections were devoted to the details of the image, now we will consider dynamic processes, which, in fact, are much more complicated and interesting.

How often do we notice that our interlocutors make certain characteristic gestures. They sometimes comb their hair, grab their ears, and cover their mouths. Each such gesture has its own meaning. Facial expressions fully reflect internal state person: whether he is lying, whether he is comfortable, whether he likes what he says.

We will master the technique of gesture recognition, you will always distinguish a lie from the truth, understand the real motives of your interlocutor. Where did his eyes go? Why did he twist his mouth like that? Did the cat really eat his annual report, was there really a traffic jam on Kutuzovsky? All this can be yours secret weapon, since it will be difficult to deceive you. Moreover, it is an indispensable technique in negotiations, communication with a new partner or lover.

The very science of interpreting facial gestures is enormous in scope. So it will not be possible to fully cover all the subtleties even for several books. There are more than fifty lip gestures alone. Therefore, we tried to select the most common, basic elements.

Man covering his mouth with his hand

When a person covers any part of the face, this is a defensive reaction. On a subconscious level, he protects himself from negative consequences. When a person covers his mouth with his hand, he does not want anyone to suspect anything in his words. Perhaps he is telling a lie or is not sure of his words.

Also, this gesture means embarrassment, insecurity, tightness. Perhaps the person was in an unusual or uncomfortable environment. The same mechanism operates - protection from the consequences. Many try to cover up their laughter - this is one of the manifestations of tightness.

An interesting point. A similar mechanism is triggered when someone else lies or avoids answering. If you tell something to a person, and he covers his mouth with his hand, then most likely he does not believe you or does not trust some words.

Man scratching his nose from below

The first option is that he has a cold or runny nose. He's trying to relieve the itching from the irritation under his nose. But if a person is perfectly healthy, then with this gesture he tries to distract you from his lies or understatement on a subconscious level. He is definitely hiding something or does not want to tell you something. During the conversation, this will also become clear, since at the same time he will try to get away from the topic, change the object of discussion, or begin to make excuses.

Man holding his chin

There are several gesture meanings. About the most harmless - the habit of scratching your beard, they say it calms. Especially men who have grown a beard or stubble.

Another option is that the person is trying to hide some hitch in the head. Do you know the feeling when you can't find the answer to a pretty easy question. Such a pause lasts a few seconds, but for you it turns into an eternity. You feel in an awkward position. Indeed, sometimes you immediately gave out the answer to more complex problems. Such moments happen to everyone and are associated with fatigue, fatigue. Some people start scratching their beard, trying to cover this pause.

The man holds his fingers in the region of the nose

Thus, he covers the face in the area of ​​​​the nose. Usually such a gesture means that a person listens to what he would not like. Or he is afraid to hear something. This feeling is familiar to everyone when, reporting to the authorities or sitting on the exam, you are asked a question, and you are not sure that you can answer it. If your interlocutor makes such a gesture, then you have found his weak spot. You can use this if you wish!

Man looks away

If during a conversation a person often looks away, then he feels some uncertainty. An animal instinct is triggered, which can be observed in cats: what I do not see is not there. Familiar?

If a person looks away before saying something, then this means that he is choosing words. At the same time, what is interesting. Looking down, he turns to memory, that is, remembers some details. At the moment when a person looks up, fantasy works. This does not necessarily mean that he is ready to lie. Perhaps you asked a question from an area that a person has not encountered or has little experience, so he analyzes his knowledge, begins to reason and turns on his imagination. Averted gaze to your left side corresponds to speech, that is, a person builds sentences. Looking away to the side is a visual picture. The person represents something.

Tight lips

If, after what has been said, a person strains his lips, they rise slightly and protrude forward, then this means that the person himself is disgusted with what he said. Such a gesture can be compared with the words "what to do?" Often such a gesture is used when bad news is reported, or a person shares something that he does not like to say. Thus, he protects himself from negative impacts by the recipient of the information. After all, he had to say something unpleasant, which means he caused negative emotions.

Serious things with a smile

Laughter is a great defensive reaction. The person seems to be saying: "come on, it's okay." Often we smile in an unusual environment, thereby protecting ourselves on a subconscious level. We laugh when we see something unusual, not even funny. It doesn't have to be a big laugh. Perhaps a restrained smile or smirk.