Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and you catch yourself crossin

Question

Have you ever been in a conversation with someone and you catch yourself crossing your leg after the other person crosses his/her leg or scratching your nose after seeing the other person do the same? Sometimes we become aware of our mirroring or mimicry, or that of others, while other times we don't seem to notice. The next time you have a conversation with someone, take note of how you might mimic the other person's behavior or vice versa. Consider when this occurs more. For example, when it is someone you know or like, someone you hope likes you or someone who is seen by others as influential. Please share your experiences. Take a look at the following resource about mimicry: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/beyond-words/201209/mimicry-and-mirroring-can-be-good-or-bad

Explanation / Answer

I have experienced many instances wherein I have found myself mirroring the body language, gestures and non-verbal aspects of speech. This often occurs unconsciously, and I am often unaware of such a tendency unless I consciously reflect on my mirroring during the situation. There is a greater tendency to mimic the actions of the other, when I admire that individual for their traits or qualities. Although mirroring improves the flow of communication between the parties concerned, I have also observed that it tends to escalate conflicts when there are disagreements.

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