What can crossing arms during a patient interaction convey?

Crossing arms during a patient interaction is often interpreted as a body language cue indicating defensiveness or disengagement. This behavior can create a barrier, suggesting that the individual is not fully open to the conversation or the ideas being presented. In clinical settings, it can lead patients to feel that the clinician is not approachable or actively listening, which may hinder effective communication and rapport building.

In contrast, an open and approachable demeanor is typically indicated by open body language, where arms are uncrossed. Showing interest in the conversation usually involves nodding, leaning slightly forward, and maintaining eye contact. Understanding and empathy, while crucial in patient interactions, would also be more effectively communicated through open gestures and active engagement rather than crossing one's arms. Therefore, crossing arms sends a signal of reluctance or defensiveness, which is why it aligns with the notion of disengagement in the context of patient interactions.