FotFactory - NLP and Popular Psychology Adolescence

The Head

Nodding

A stunted form of bowing to indicate yes. It shows that both people are respecting each other's view point. Slow nodding shows the listener is interested in what the speaker is saying. Fast nodding tells the speaker that the recipient has heard enough and that they want the speaker to finish and let them speak. Positive feelings cause the head to nod. So nodding the head intentionally will cause the person to feel more positive. Nodding is also contagious and good for rapport – the other person is likely to nod back.

Head Shake

This is one of the first gestures that a baby learns – had enough milk. It means, “No.” We can see the mismatch when people say “I agree with what you are saying” whilst at the same time shaking their head.

Head Up

The person has a neutral attitude to what is being said.

Head High

With the chin jutting forward with throat exposed. It shows superiority, fearlessness or arrogance. It gives that person the additional height to look down on the other person.

Head Tilt

A submission signal as the throat and neck are exposed. It makes the person look small and less threatening. This comes from the baby resting its head on its mother’s shoulder. It is particularly understood by women. Women also use it to show interest in men that they fancy – a woman who is non threatening and submissive is seen as very attractive to men. In lectures it shows that the main point is getting across.

Head Down

A negative, judgemental, aggressive attitude. It happens a lot at the start of presentations. A good way to get rid of this is to get the audience to participate.

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