This book presents a framework for understanding the role of nonverbal behavior in political debates, including an examination of candidates' attempts to undermine opponents while presenting themselves as likeable. Theory and historical examples underline the importance of nonverbal elements in political contests.

John S. Seiter is distinguished professor of communication studies in the Department of Languages, Philosophy, and Communication Studies at Utah State University.

Harry Weger, Jr. is professor of communication at University of Central Florida in Orlando.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. A Rationale and Framework for Exploring Nonverbal Communication in Political Debates

Chapter 2. A Primer on Nonverbal Behavior

Chapter 3. Nonverbal Behavior of the Speaking Candidate

Chapter 4. Background Nonverbal Behavior in Political Debates: The Role of Nonspeaking Candidates

Chapter 5. Mediated Nonverbal Communication and Political Debates

Chapter 6. Applying Principles of Persuasion to the Social Scientific Study of Nonverbal Behavior in Political Debates

Chapter 7. Humanistic Theories for Analyzing Nonverbal Behavior in Televised Debates

Chapter 8. Nonverbal Behavior in the 2016 Presidential Debates: Applying Communication Theory to the Debates