Body Language Posture and Stance

Question 1

What does an 'open' posture — facing someone with uncrossed arms and legs — generally communicate?

Accepted Answer

Receptiveness, confidence, and willingness to engage

Answer

Defensiveness and guarding of personal space

Answer

Dominance and authority over others

Answer

Boredom and disinterest in the conversation

Question 2

Crossed arms during a conversation most reliably indicate:

Accepted Answer

Possible defensiveness, discomfort, or self-protection — context dependent

Answer

Always a sign of deception

Answer

Comfort and relaxation in all contexts

Answer

Aggression and hostility toward the speaker

Question 3

In body language, 'postural echo' or 'mirroring' a conversation partner's posture usually signals:

Accepted Answer

Rapport, agreement, and empathy

Answer

Dominance and competition

Answer

Disagreement and tension

Answer

Boredom and desire to end the conversation

Question 4

Someone who stands with legs wide apart and hands on hips is displaying which type of posture signal?

Accepted Answer

Dominant and confident

Answer

Submissive and deferential

Answer

Neutral and ambiguous

Answer

Fearful and threatened

Question 5

What does a forward lean toward another person typically communicate?

Accepted Answer

Interest, engagement, or enthusiasm for the conversation

Answer

Desire to end the interaction

Answer

Intimidation and aggression

Answer

Submission and deference

Question 6

A slumped posture with rounded shoulders and a downward-facing head most commonly signals:

Accepted Answer

Low confidence, sadness, or defeat

Answer

Relaxation and comfort

Answer

Confidence and authority

Answer

Deception and dishonesty