What Every BODY Is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent's Guide to Speed-Reading People

Joe Navarro & Marvin Karlins

Language: English

Publisher: HarperCollins

Published: Apr 14, 2008

Description:

What Every BODY Is Saying is a book about the science of nonverbal communication, or the ways in which people communicate without using words. It is written by Joe Navarro, a former FBI agent and expert on nonverbal behavior, and Marvin Karlins, a psychologist and communication researcher. The main points of the book are as follows:

  1. Nonverbal communication is a powerful tool for understanding people's thoughts and emotions. By paying attention to things like body language, facial expressions, and vocal cues, we can gain insight into what others are feeling and thinking.

  2. Nonverbal communication is universal. While the specific gestures and expressions used to convey emotions may vary across cultures, the underlying emotions themselves are universal and can be recognized across cultures.

  3. Nonverbal cues can reveal a person's true feelings. While people can try to hide their emotions with words, it is much harder to control nonverbal cues, which can reveal a person's true feelings.

  4. There are specific nonverbal cues that are associated with specific emotions. For example, crossed arms can indicate defensiveness, while fidgeting can indicate discomfort or nervousness. By learning to recognize these cues, we can better understand others' emotions.

  5. Nonverbal communication can be used to influence others. By understanding how to use nonverbal cues effectively, we can communicate more effectively and influence others in a positive way.

  6. There are various factors that can influence nonverbal communication, including culture, context, and individual differences. It is important to consider these factors when interpreting nonverbal cues.