Nonverbal Dominance

The manner in which people use their bodies, consciously or unconsciously, to indicate their intent to supervise or lead others or to manage or control social encounters.

Nonverbal dominant behavior does not necessarily indicate evil or unhealthy intent. Often, it is perceived by the other person or persons within the social setting.

The person who holds a gaze longer or who can stare down another person is thought to be dominant. The person who reaches out first to firmly grip another's hand in greeting or who leans toward or towers over the individual he or she is addressing shows signs of dominant behavior. The person who frowns or whose eye movements and gestures show displeasure or anger is more likely to control a social encounter than the person whose countenance is pleasant. The person who strides ahead, who gets to the front of the line first, or who occupies the most favorable spot exhibits dominance. For more information, see Carney, Hall, and LeBeau (2005).