Newswise — Actions speak louder than words, it's true. But not every little gesture is equally significant when it comes to interpreting the body language of the presidential and vice-presidential candidates.
Karen Bradley (University of Maryland), Karen Studd (George Mason University) and Jennifer Mizenko (University of Mississippi), Certified Movement Analysts, provided a quick overview of what to look for in the coming debates.
"What we observe is how the candidates adapt and adjust to new situations, because that tells us how they make decisions, especially in volatile circumstances," said Jennifer Mizenko."We look at their tendencies and attitudes, not just their momentary gestures."
"There are two reasons why observing the candidates is important," stated Karen Studd. "For one thing, we get to see them in many different situations: giving a speech to a crowd, in an interview, debating, with their spouses. We can get a lot of data. But more importantly, we need to be watching them, because their movement reveals a great deal about how they will lead the country."
In the coming weeks, the three analysts hope to provide intelligent commentary on the candidates' debate performances. "We've been watching these politicians for a long time and in some depth," said Karen Bradley. "We know their tendencies and we are anticipating some fascinating and revealing moments in the coming days."
The analysts noted that John McCain, for example, has abandoned much of his tenacious ground-holding and appears to be shifting to a lighter and more equivocating style. Barack Obama has taken more "stands" lately and has adopted more targeted statements, a shift from his tendency to pause and stroll around the stage.
All three are available, singly or together, for post-debate analysis.
Karen Kohn Bradley, Karen Studd and Jennifer Mizenko are all Laban Certified Movement Analysts, who study the nonverbal and movement behaviors of political leaders.
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