Friday, January 2, 2026

What's in a Handshake

I have come across six basic types of handshakes.  Four of those are full handshakes, and two are "cut-off" handshakes. 


Full handshake:
1.  Firm, strong but not forceful - this person seems to know who they are
2.  "Overpowering" - this person seems to have the need to make others feel less so they can feel better about themselves
3.  "Normal," not strong but definitely not weak - not much can be told about this handshake; it is the most common
4.  Weak, limp - this person is most likely unsure of themselves; if the person is a male, steer clear; if the person is a female, she can most likely be controlled (she is not one you'd want as a close friend)

Cut-off handshake showing they recognize you are a female:
1.  Soft - trying to impress
2.  Firm - shows respect

Cut off handshakes are rare, and a firm cut-off handshake is the rarest.  I have only recently come across this handshake.  This handshake seems to have come from a respectful, young man with good intentions.