All human share some communication traits, regardless of culture gender or language. We explore these later in depth, but for now let us get to know the essential concepts so the details of body movements relate to how individual gestures might fit into a meaningful, complete picture.
Illustrators are gestures used to punctuate a statement. Examples are finger pointing; head bobbing; batoning with the hand, arm, or head; and arm outstretched with the palm up, as if to suggest you are giving something.
Regulators are gestures used to control another person’s speech. Examples are putting a hand up like a stop sign; putting a finger to the lips to ask for silence; and moving the hand quickly in a circle as a way of saying: “Speed it up.”
Adaptors are gestures to release stress, to adjust the body as a way to increase the comfort level. Examples are hand-wringing, neck throbbing, and curling the toes. People often develop idiosyncratic adaptors; they also can look very different depending on whether a man or a woman is doing them.
Barriers are postures and gestures we use when we are uncomfortable. Examples include standing behind a table, turning sideways, and sometimes crossing arms while in conversation. Everyone has seen someone sitting smugly behind a desk a appearing confident and secure.
These concepts will help us speak a common language as we spotlight body movements and reactions from scalp to sole. We will explore more on these facts later.
Interesting book about gesture
