Bringing a hand to the throat, neck or collar, often when feeling exposed or uncertain.
Asked a difficult question a person reaches up and lightly covers the hollow of the throat. The hand settles over a vulnerable spot, a small instinctive move to shield and soothe at once.
This is a common pacifying move that suggests unease, doubt or a feeling of being threatened. It often appears at the exact moment a sensitive subject is raised, marking where the discomfort lies.
Jewellery and clothing habits cause the same motion, so look for the pattern over time. Someone adjusting a necklace or collar may simply be fidgeting rather than feeling exposed.
Hand movements that accompany speech and paint the shape, size or rhythm of what is being said.
ExploreGestures with a fixed meaning that can stand in for words, such as a thumbs up or a beckoning hand.
ExploreSmall self-touching movements such as rubbing the hands or stroking the arm that help to soothe nerves.
Explore