Monday, July 7, 2014

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2877: Zac Efron and Michelle Rodriguez Dating - Thumbs Forward Arms Akimbo (PHOTOS)

Zac Efron and Michelle Rodriguez are seen here on a sail boat while vacationing off the coast of Sardinia, Italy. After several weeks of rumors, the Hollywood couple have confirmed they are dating.

In the image above, Efron is subconsciously showing us several distinct nonverbal signals. The most obvious one is his "Arms Akimbo" configuration - however he is displaying a variety less common in men - with his thumbs forward and fingers backward.

Thumbs forward arms akimbo signals some assertiveness - yet significantly less so compared to the more common fingers forward variation (thus not highly alpha and not highly beta - but what is known as an "alpha-beta hybrid"). It signifies an elevated level of emotional support for those in whom one's attention is directed - as well as that of a quizzical mindset. A person displaying a thumbs forward arms akimbo always has an elevated level of emotional comfort. Thus if you note a person changing from a thumbs forward to a fingers forward akimbo stance - this is a very reliable signifier that their emotional comfort has dropped (much like a deer raising its tail when it goes to a higher level of alertness). This significant (while subtle to some) shift in hand-arm position will be virtually always accompanied by elevated facial anxiety indicators (can you name some?).

From a body language nomenclature perspective, the thumbs forward arms akimbo is classified both a subtle "emblem" as well as a nonverbal "MAP" (Manipulator, Adaptor, Pacifier).

What other nonverbal sexual attraction signals (and others) do you see in this image?

What additional beta signals? What alpha signs?

See also:

Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2876: President Obama on Key Bridge regarding John Boehner's Lawsuit - "So Sue Me"


Dating & Romance Secret #227:  Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake - Are You Comfortable Around Your Ex?


Negotiation Secret # 89:  Opposite Facing Arms Akimbo



Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2827: Caroline Wozniacki and Rory McIlroy - She was the Alpha, He was the Beta