During an interview, a parent of a hospitalized child is sitting in a recliner with his legs extended and his arms at his sides. As the interviewer begins to discuss his son's treatment, however, he suddenly changes positions and crosses his arms against his chest and crosses his legs. What does this change in posture suggest?

A) Simply changing positions
B) More comfortable in this position
C) Tired and needs a break from the interview
D) Uncomfortable talking about his son's treatment

The parent was in an open position, one in which there is extension of large muscle groups which shows relaxation, physical comfort, and a willingness to share information. However, he moved into a closed position, in which the arms and legs are crossed. This closed position tends to look defensive and anxious. If a person in a relaxed position suddenly tenses, then this change in posture suggests possible discomfort with the new topic. The parent's position should be noted. If a person in an opened, relaxed position (legs and arms extended) suddenly tenses and moves to a closed position (arms and legs crossed)then this change in posture suggests possible discomfort with the new topic and is more than just changing positions to get comfortable or needing a break.