Manipulator gestures are a type of nonverbal communication involving movements where one part of the body interacts with or "manipulates" another part of the body. These actions are often self-directed.
Understanding Manipulator Gestures
At their core, manipulator gestures describe instances where an individual's own body parts engage with each other. This can involve a hand touching the arm, fingers rubbing the neck, or any other action where one body part grooms, massages, rubs, holds, pinches, picks, or scratches another part of the body. These gestures are distinct from symbolic gestures, which convey a specific meaning, or illustrators, which accompany speech.
Common Examples of Manipulator Gestures
These gestures are frequently observed in everyday interactions and can sometimes indicate a person's comfort level, stress, or a need for self-soothing. Here are some common examples:
- Grooming: Straightening hair, adjusting clothing, or smoothing skin.
- Massaging: Rubbing one's own temples, neck, or hands.
- Rubs: Friction movements like rubbing hands together or rubbing an arm.
- Holds: Clasping hands, gripping one's own arm, or holding a chin.
- Pinches: Lightly pinching skin or a specific body part.
- Picks: Actions like picking at nails or skin.
- Scratches: Itching or scratching any part of the body.
Such gestures are often unconscious and can provide subtle cues about an individual's internal state.
