Studies of posture with arms crossed in the United States have produced rather alarming results. Two groups of students offered to attend a course of lectures. One group was told not to cross their arms or legs, to sit quietly and relaxed. At the end of each lecture, researchers analyzed the degree of digestibility of the material and the attitude of students to the lecturer. Another group was told to sit at the lecture with arms folded. As a result, it turned out that the group sitting with arms crossed mastered the material by 38% worse than those students who listened to the lecturer in a different pose. The second group also demonstrated a more critical attitude to the lecturer and to the topic of the lecture.

When you cross your arms over your chest, your credibility is drastically reduced.

We conducted similar studies in 1989. 1500 subjects attended six different lectures and showed almost the same results. Studies show that by crossing his arms, the listener begins to experience more negative feelings towards the speaker. In addition, his attention is scattered. That is why in the preparatory centers they always install chairs with armrests - in such a chair the listener does not feel the need to cross his arms over his chest.

Yes, but it's more convenient for me

Some people say that they cross their arms out of habit, simply because it is more convenient for them. Any gesture seems convenient to you only when you are in a corresponding mood. If you feel comfortable with arms crossed, then your attitude is negative or defensive. Comfortably in this position feel and those who are very nervous. Please note that people rarely fold their arms over their friends or family.
Remember that any signal of the language of body movements is perceived not only by the person himself, but also by his interlocutor. It is possible that you are “comfortable” to sit with arms crossed on your chest, straightened back and raised chin. But studies show that the reaction of others to such a pose is extremely negative. We believe the conclusion is absolutely clear: try not to cross your arms under any circumstances. This can only be done if you want to make it clear to the interlocutor that you do not agree and do not want to take part in the conversation.

It may seem to you that you are crossing your arms just for convenience. However, others consider you closed and inaccessible.

Differences between the sexes

The hands of men are usually directed inwards. Women's hands are most often directed outward. Such differences allow men to aim better and throw objects. The elbows of a woman placed help her to hold her baby more safely. Interestingly, in the presence of attractive men, women open their arms more strongly. In a society of unpleasant and aggressive men, women instinctively try to cover their breasts.