KINESICS - Arms

KINESICS - Arms

Arms are often used as barriers to defend ones‟ position or to hide self. A few common gestures involving arms are as below:

(a) Standard arm-cross gesture
When both hands are folded across the chest, an attempt is to hide from unfavorable situations. It is a universal gesture signifying a negative or defensive attitude. When a person is among strangers in public meetings, queues, cafeterias, lifts etc, people feel uncertain and insecure.
A simple but effective method to avoid this is to hand the person a pen, a book or something that forces him to open his arms. Another method is to reach him and ask if he wanted to ask a question. Successful salespersons do not proceed with the presentation about their product until they have uncovered the reasons for customer folding his arms.

(b) Reinforced arm-cross gesture
If in addition to the above he has clenched his fists with a red face, a verbal or physical attack is imminent. A submissive palm opens up approach is required to discover the reason if it is not known already.

(c) Arms folded and gripping the upper arms
Often the arms are gripped so tight that fingers and knuckles turn white because the blood circulation is cut off. This gesture is common among people waiting in doctors‟ / dentists‟ clinics. A first-time traveler prior to the plane taking off also exhibits this gesture as it shows negative restrained attitude.

(d) Arms folded in front and thumbs pointing vertically upwards
When a young executive among unfamiliar people does a handshake with the top boss and then stands aside with arms folded with thumbs pointing vertically upwards, it represents a defensive gesture but with a cool approach. It reflects self-confidence with folded arms giving a sense of protection

(e) Arms folded partially in front with one hand in the other
This is a partial arm-cross barrier and often seen in meetings among strangers. It is a common gesture used by people who stand before a crowd to receive an award or give a speech. This gesture reminds people of their childhood days when parents held his hand under fearful circumstances!