A Basic Body Language Perspective
on the 2008 Presidential Debates
Body
language is 68% of communications. Since our educational system does
not specifically focus on body language skills, a speaker's body
language is often an authentic form of communication that cannot be
easily rehearsed. Especially during stressful situations like a
Presidential debate, the majority of one's mental processing focus
on the content of the debate, leaving a clear and authentic
statement by one's body language. So if an individual is insecure,
their body language will scream insecurity and be forward attacking.
The following are some
basic examples of body language.
Obama making solid eye contact;
relaxed posture, hands collected illustrating thoughts.
McCain looking down often when
speaking, showing a lack of eye contact.
Another interesting perspective,
in a randomly chosen 22 second duration, Obama blinked 17
times while McCain blinked 40 times. A huge difference between the
candidates.
Another major difference is in eye
contact when the other is speaking. McCain did not make eye contact
when Obama was speaking, while Obama directly looked at McCain. Eye
contact is an indicator of respect in many cultures. When
embarrassed or hiding something, people tend disconnect with the
lack of eye contact. It can also a strategy used to dehumanize
another individual.
Biden's hands are in his pockets,
removed/disengaged. Removed from the podium, it illustrates a level
of comfort or a strategy to minimize another's statement.
Palin leaning forward, engaged in
her presentation.
The context of the debates is also a
significant statement. There are two considerations for speakers and
audience.
1. Context of Attacking
a. Detracts from what one has to offer
b. A
sign of insecurity, fear, warrior mentality. People who are
secure within themselves does not engage in constant attacks.
2. Look for the Leader, not just the content
a. Content is constantly changing; focusing on content alone may
be misleading
b. Look
for significant characteristics of a leader: Secure, Confident,
Wisdom
See the NBC
clip...
Dr. Ted Sun
