Cross cultural understanding: a handbook to understand others’ cultures

crossed arms 
with clenched 
fists
hostile 
defensiveness 
Clenched 
fists 
reinforce 
stubbornness, aggression or the 
lack of empathy indicated by 
crossed arms.
one arm across 
body clasping 
other arm by 
side (female)
nervousness 
Women use this gesture. Men 
tend not to. It's a 'barrier' 
protective signal, and also self-
hugging. 
arms held 
behind body 
with hands 
clasped
confidence, 
authority 
As demonstrated by members of 
the royal family, armed forces 
officers, teachers, policemen, etc. 
holding papers 
across chest 
nervousness 
Another 'barrier' protective signal, 
especially when arm is across 
chest. 
adjusting cuff, 
watchstrap, 
tie, etc., using 
an arm across 
the body
nervousness 
Another 'barrier' protective signal. 
seated, holding 
nervousness 
One arm rests on the table across 

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84 | Cross Cultural Understanding 
Signal
Possible
Meaning(s)
Detailed Explanation
drink on one 
side with hand 
from other side
the body, holding a drink (or pen, 
etc). Another 'barrier' protective 
signal. 
touching or 
scratching 
shoulder using 
arm across 
body
nervousness 
Another 'barrier' protective signal. 
 
e.
 
Hands 
Hands contain many more nerve connections (to 
the brain) than most if not all other body parts. They 
are extremely expressive and flexible tools, so it is 
natural for hands to be used a lot in signalling 
consciously - as with emphasizing gestures - or 
unconsciously - as in a wide range of unintentional 
movements which indicate otherwise hidden feelings 
and thoughts. 
Hand is used for various purposes, notably: