Body language is a way of non verbal comunication, where the body "speaks" through gestures, Facial expressions and postures.
Body language appeared long before verbal language, and still today represents one of the most important forms of human communication. Experts claim that approximately 93% of all human communication is non-verbal. 55% of communication is done without the use of words, that is, it is related to postures, facial expressions and gestures. Loudness and vocalization (tone of voice, rhythm and speech rate) are also important and account for 38% of transmitted messages.
The posture of the arms, legs, head and facial expression can convey various feelings. For example, if a person does not maintain eye contact while another person is talking to them, it could mean that they are not interested in the conversation or the person. On the other hand, when a person has their arms crossed, this posture can be considered defensive, revealing insecurity. The distance between speaker and interlocutor can also indicate tension between the two.
Social psychologist Amy Cuddy says that our posture can not only change the opinion of others about us, but it also influences our view of ourselves. Cuddy also identifies powerful and non-powerful postures that can have a positive or negative impact on our self-esteem. A proper posture can help in various scenarios, such as job interviews, for example.
body language and lie
There are several experts who are dedicated to the study of body language, and can identify a person's true feelings, which often do not match what the person is saying.
American psychologist Paul Ekman is recognized as the leading expert on facial expressions. His work influenced the creation of the show Lie to Me, where a trained group solves various crimes by observing the body language of the various suspects. According to some experts, there are 15 body language cues to identify a lie.
body language and attraction
Charles Darwin was one of the first to address the body language of some animals when finding a partner. Males often court females, often altering their behavior to increase their chances of "conquest".
For humans, body language also plays an important role in seduction, because the way an individual behaves will alter the ability to seduce. Male and female body language also reveal availability and interest for a romantic relationship or physical involvement.
A man who has a confident and uninhibited posture is likely to be more attractive. The success of flirting or flirting is often dependent on one's attitude and ability to interpret a person's body language. For example, if a woman is fussing with her hair while talking to you, this could be a sign of interest on her part. If a man looks directly at you several times in a short period of time, it could indicate that he is interested.
Regarding seduction, it is important to mention that male body language is different from female body language. Furthermore, even between people of the same gender there are differences, because different personalities result in different forms of body language.
Body and Sign Language
It's important not to confuse body language with sign language. Sign language is more objective, with each gesture having its own meaning, which was established by convention. In body language, a certain posture or gesture is more subjective, and may or may not reveal a mental or physical attitude.
See too: Types of Language: Verbal, Nonverbal and Mixed.
