Many people struggle with head shakes and nods and if the person means what they say, especially if they shake their head, but say yes.

Here is an example of Michelle Obama.  She says, “I can say that I enjoyed this year” and yet she shakes her head no.

Does this mean she didn’t enjoy this year?

No, it does not.  Her head shake is not in contradiction to what she is saying.  Often times we emphasize what we feel with a head shake. Its normal and natural, and throws a lot of people.

If you want to know if someone’s head shake it out of line, for beginners, it should be in opposition to the words “yes” and “no” to correlate or have significant meaning. There are other instances that have significance, but its more complex.

Please refrain from political comments.  This blog is about deception, emotion and understanding human behavior.  The only thing I will say about Michelle is I love how humble she is–considering her position and status.

Thanks, Gregory, for the question.