Understanding Body Language: How to Decode Nonverbal Communication in Life, Love, and Work

by Scott Rouse

Become more successful in every interaction by learning to read body language

Scientific studies show that people use body language to express their true feelings about a given situation or topic. With Understanding Body Language , you'll discover essential information and how-to guidance for deciphering nonverbal communication so you can make better decisions about the people and situations you approach every day.

Start by learning how to properly observe people so you can uncover their subtle nonverbal cues without drawing attention to yourself. Then, practice on your friends and family with practical advice to help you better read social gatherings and telltale signs of disagreement. Finally, dive deeper with real-life scenarios you'll likely encounter, such as dating, job interviews, and workplace interactions.

Understanding Body Language

Learn to decode body language with this complete guide to understanding nonverbal communication.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction, Self Help, Science, Communication, Education, Social

172 pages, Paperback

Published January 5, 2021

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an easy read, interesting and engaging the whole way through. Rouse uses simple language and illustrations to explain many of the nonverbal cues one can observe in day to day life. There are sections on dating, workplace, and interview responses that could be very useful. I am eager to go to the family Christmas gathering so I can practice reading cues. Maybe this will even help me connect with my mother-in-law! 🤣😂
I recommend this book to anyone who is even slightly interested in it. The author’s easygoing manner of writing makes it seem like you’re sitting down to have coffee with a friend who just happens to be a behavior analyst and body language expert.

[Sincerely, Angel · Rating 3 out of 5]

it was basic for me again but I appreciate the illustrations.

[A Crawley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple language, direct analysis, and descriptions of nonverbal behaviors in daily scenarios, considering their utility in expressing and decoding each cue.

While it has some interesting observations that are unique to this book, they can be counted with hands and most of the other contributions come from what other observers had already published, so whats original is how the book is structured and the examples are given, but the content it's no fresh.

Issues:
Plainly accepts basic emotions theory and universal facial expressions as a given with a simple one-to-one relationship. It's clearly an outdated approach.

Some explanations are taken as a given and are not explained. "It's like this because it's like this". Many observations are not backed up but science, but that's okay since he is not trying to make us think they are, but in a few instances they are weird and questionable.

[Bohdana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too general. Quite obvious most of the time.

[Suz Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

UNDERSTANDING BODY LANGUAGE covers the basics of body language, practicing the art of deciphering body language meaning, and focuses on typical body language in certain scenarios (e.g. politics, parties, disagreements, as well as common body language exhibited during dating, job interviews, and at work.

I really liked the layout, color pallet, and illustrations that nicely demonstrated the concepts. The only thing I didn’t like is that some sections included a red background and black font, which presented a visual challenge to me due to a lack of contrast. Most readers will likely have no difficulties with these small sections, but they may present an issue to someone with a visual impairment.

The book takes a comprehensive approach to body language by discussing role of the limbic system in body language, the mechanics of deceit, the science of body language, cultural variations, workplace personalities, company meetings, performance reviews, client pitches, and the universal emotions. I enjoyed seeing diversity in the people used in the illustrations to demonstrate various body language forms. Lists of references and resources are provided in the back of the book.

This book is an excellent resource for readers who wish to gain a basic understanding of body language, particularly in work and dating situations.

[Yalım Yılmaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read, informative.

[Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

The information in this book is a little basic. I did enjoy the parts of the book where the author used real-life examples (Bill Clinton, Jimmy Fallon, etc.) to show how to analyze someone's behaviors. I wish there was more practical application rather than just plainly stating information.

[Donna (will never finish her TBR) · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

[Hari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent read

Provide how to read body language and also, recommends appreciated behavior in each of the below areas:

1. Family/ friend gathering
2. Dating
3. Job interview
4. Work place
5. Investor pitch or presentation

While each of the above areas have a few varying dynamics, in general, recommended behaviors are same across all areas:

One has to smile, keep shoulders back and straight with legs in line with shoulders and hands gestures between stomach and belt.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Understanding Body Language" is a guide to understanding what body language means, with examples of common body language cues as seen in specific circumstances. For example, the author took a situation like a date and broke down some common body language cues and what they mean. There's a drawn picture showing people using this body language to help show what it looks like. He described what the body language looks like, what it (probably) means in that situation, and how to use that information in how you approach that person. The author started by pointing out body language commonly seen in situations like news reports or talk show hosts, then he talked about social gatherings, signs of disagreement, a date, a job interview, and situations at the workplace. The author also talked about when body language might be different due to a different cultural background or other reasons. Overall, I'd recommend this book, especially to someone who doesn't feel confident around other people. I'm comfortable in social situations and I knew many of the body language signals and what they meant, but I did learn some new ones.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

[gage sugden · Rating 1 out of 5]

I've never researched nonverbal communication specifically in any capacity, yet I learned absolutely nothing new from reading this book. It is just a bunch of common sense knowledge repeated over and over and over. "Eye contact good," "feet point at person you like," that kind of stuff.

It's content that belongs on a buzzfeed slideshow, not in a book you pay money for (I read it on Kindle Unlimited). I would almost say I'd recommend it as a gift for an interested child, as the presentation of the information is at least decent with good pictures and structure, but the lack of any discussion by Rouse of ethics is a dealbreaker. And Rouse's tone is pretty creepy, as he is basically telling readers to deceive/manipulate others to get what you want, in business and romantic contexts. That's just disturbing.

Hard pass.

[John Paxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell into body language by hearing Scott Rouse talk on a podcast, Unstructured by Eric Hunley, and ended up falling down the rabbit hole, e.g, Found The behavior panel, read books from each of the hosts, and took the course "body language tactics" that Scott and Greg Hartley run. I have a great defense, this was his first book on the topic.

While this wasn't my first book on body language I would have loved this when starting out. It's no "for dummies" (are those books still around?) Well written, illustrated, and engaging on a practical level; Sources are provided, a great suggestion list of books and websites to follow up on, and some great advice on how to tell the world about your new super-power. Hint, Don't :)

[bibi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read

Liked how the chapters built on basic knowledge to more elaborate ideas. The examples used especially of politicians and people in real life settings and different contexts made it simple to understand.
Quick and easy read to grasp the basic ideas to get you started with understanding body language.

[Phil Daikens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative and easy to read


I had many of the examples talked about flashing through my head while reading. Lots of A-ha moments. I can see clearer now.

[Suzanne Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of info

I learned a great deal from reading this book. I enjoyed the ease and flow of the content. Scott Rouse really paints the picture and provides detailed information.

[Namita Das · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delving into Scott Rouse's "Understanding Body Language: How to Decode Nonverbal Communication in Life, Love, and Work" is akin to discovering a treasure trove for anyone eager to unlock the power of body language across various facets of life. Rouse, a recognized authority in this domain, masterfully distils his extensive knowledge into an easily digestible narrative that captivates from start to finish.

One of the book's standout features is Rouse's adeptness in articulating complex concepts through vivid examples, compelling illustrations, and practical exercises. These elements facilitate comprehension and infuse an enjoyable aspect into the learning process. Particularly noteworthy is the chapter devoted to leveraging body language to enhance personal and professional relationships—a profoundly resonated segment.

The wealth of insights from this book is substantial; it's a compass for those seeking heightened self-assurance, influence, and success. Rouse demonstrates prowess as an accomplished author and shines as a skilled teacher and mentor, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject.

Beyond the book's pages, Rouse's YouTube channel, The Behaviour Panel, is a testament to his expertise. Through analyses of celebrities and events, Rouse and his team unveil many learning opportunities, showcasing the practical applications of decoding body language.

In essence, "Understanding Body Language" is indispensable for anyone keen on exploring the depths of self-awareness and understanding others on a profound level. Scott Rouse has crafted a remarkable resource, and we extend our gratitude. This book is a transformative guide, illuminating the path to more excellent interpersonal connections and self-knowledge.

[Mohammed Ghaïth · Rating 3 out of 5]

The proper use of eye gazing is one of the most powerful skills
anyone can hone. You can make someone angry, doubt themselves, doubt you, engage with you, keep looking at you, and even tell you things they hadn’t planned on telling you, all just by looking at them a certain way.

In less than 200 pages, this book made me realise that, although initially rolled off by my genuine and innocent interest, reading about Body Language can be very controversial and may be restricted in the type and amount of information a common person may acquire since you may stumble over books by ex-FBI agents and/or people involved with the US military and/or intelligence.

Using simple language, and occasional citing of elements from Neuroscience, Psychology, and some Anthropology, Scott Rouse's present work is honest in stating that it cannot provide what could be classified as exclusive to security members, engaging in its examples, and illustrative in the few comic sketches it offers. The book delivers what I believe are the quintessential generalities one should know on the subject.

I liked the way he insisted on the non-universality of nonverbal cues, and the fact that he made it clear that the overall approach to learning the basics, let alone being an expert, is subject to having a hold on a multifactorial skill where, other than uncertainty, there are no absolute postulates.

I need to come back to it in the future because summarising a chapter/section in some short snippet of text is quite useful and only a second read may help me retain the information offered.

In case you have not understood it already, it is recommended.

[Sajjad · Rating 3 out of 5]

درک زبان بدن: چگونه ارتباطات غیرکلامی را در زندگی، عشق و کار رمزگشایی کنیم" اثر اسکات راوس
نقاط قوت کتاب

سادگی و روانی زبان: یکی از بزرگترین نقاط قوت این کتاب، استفاده از زبانی ساده و روان برای توضیح مفاهیم پیچیده زبان بدن است. این ویژگی باعث شده است که افراد با هر سطحی از دانش بتوانند به راحتی مطالب کتاب را درک کنند.
کاربردی بودن: کتاب "درک زبان بدن" صرفاً به ارائه مفاهیم نظری نمی‌پردازد، بلکه کاربردهای عملی زبان بدن را در موقعیت‌های مختلف زندگی بررسی می‌کند. این ویژگی باعث شده است که خواننده بتواند مطالب کتاب را به راحتی در زندگی خود پیاده کند.
پوشش گسترده مباحث: این کتاب طیف وسیعی از موضوعات مرتبط با زبان بدن را پوشش می‌دهد. از حرکات دست و پا گرفته تا حالات چهره و زبان بدن در فرهنگ‌های مختلف، همه و همه در این کتاب مورد بررسی قرار گرفته‌اند.
وجود تصاویر و نمودارها: استفاده از تصاویر و نمودارهای گرافیکی در این کتاب به درک بهتر مفاهیم کمک شایانی کرده است.

نقاط ضعف کتاب

عمومی بودن مطالب: برخی از منتقدان معتقدند که این کتاب به اندازه کافی به عمق موضوعات نمی‌پردازد و مطالب آن بیش از حد عمومی هستند.

[Kaamil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed with information

This book is a very quick read and offers a wealth of knowledge on body language. Since it is a short book with a lot of information, you need to be prepared to take a lot of notes to avoid overwhelming your memory.

One thing I admire is that the author explained body language as a tool to express what is happening in the person's mind. This made the different scenarios much easier to memorise. For example, if someone's hand is over their chest, you can see they want to protect their lungs and heart. Hence, the author explained that scenario as feeling like you are going to be attacked. Treating the visual as a metaphor for the physical was very useful.

[Pankaj Doltade · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a very detailed book on body language. Most of the signs/things mentioned by the author are obvious things that one sees since he/she is born and forms a perspective or opinion about it because he has seen it so many times with the same body signs followed by similar actions always. For eg - some lost in thoughts would mostly have his eyes focused at a single point for a long time, an angry person would have frowned eyebrows with grips closed whereas a relaxed person would have his muscles relaxed, fingers probably open and a slight smile while speaking to someone.

I was expecting more of a detective type reading of body language hence kind of disappointed but still enjoyed reading it. It's available on Kindle Unlimited for free if anyone is interested and has subscribed to it.

[Noah Candelario · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this book for how really simple it is the read. I really enjoyed reading this book between sets at the gym, when I was resting. The tips in the book are extremely practical and useful to for day to day interactions. I do appreciate how the other reminds readers that they need to understand the variability of human interactions and understand everything in contexts. For some scenarios it can be dry for some readers, but the author in the beginning, understands that need to skip certain sections. I am glad I was able to pick up this book with my new Kindle and Kindle subscription.

[Edward Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read

This is my third body language book that I have read, and I highly recommend check in this book out and reading it. It was worth it. It’s always good to add on previous books and previous knowledge. I think the art reading body language takes practice like the book talks about, but I think it has helped in my day-to-day operations of working and managing a retail store understanding peoples body language helps me better assess the situation.

[Jonathan Griffin · Rating 4 out of 5]

* Danger - this book makes you even more of a people watcher.

* The book partners simple explanations effectively with helpful illustrations.

* A lot of the material you may already know subconsciously but I found it helpful to have these ideas about body language articulated onto a page.

* Now that I have finished this book I can see myself returning to it in future as a reference material. It may be useful to consult it ahead of important moments at work etc.

[Angel Veliz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative and eye catching.

I Read this in a day, I like the parts that mentioned body cues and why we do them. Its better to be confident and aware than shy and unaware. This small book helped me trace a better idea of why people use facial expressions during certain conversations.

[Jeff Bobin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for something short, concise and informative this is a great read.

There are good illustrations so that you can see the gestures or expressions as well as read about them. While there is not a lot of depth behind the conclusions it is an excellent way to start seeing the messages conveyed by the body and not just the words.

[Ashwini · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic book to read, to listen to what is happening around you which is unspoken. Merely by observing and applying the principles in this book you can hear what the other person is saying and gain a advantage over the others interacting with the same person. I wish it was more easier to understand and had charts to depict what happens in what cases.

[Kim Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was interesting. I wanted a little more from the opening section where he talked in generalities. I felt that information was skimmed over a little too quickly for someone not as astute as he is. :) Some of the specific situations were nice, but not situations I personally find myself in. Overall, though, it was a good introduction.

[Evgenia Dimitriou · Rating 2 out of 5]

Easy to read but quite obvious most of the time. Also, the reader repeats way too many times that he's trained a great number of people on body language cues; it's like he's trying to validate himself.

[Aditya Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent read to learn about body language

The book has some great pointwrs on body language insights that are not typically observed, but I dont know how good they are on implementation.

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read about interpreting body language and social situations. Most of the book is graphics with explanations and an index to find various body signals or cues. The author has the credentials to present a scholarly book but created a short and simple starter for anyone interested.