Robert Downey Jr. WALKS OUT OF INTERVIEW In Anger! Body Language Analyst Reacts!

Robert Downey Jr, best known for his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe was handling this interview masterfully until the interviewer pushed a little too hard causing the famous actor to get up and walk out. But what does his body language reveal? As one of the most successful actors in the world, how does he use his facial expressions to connect with his audience and what was the question that pushed him just a little too far? Find out now!
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STUDIES & RESEARCH
Paul D. Krivonos & Mark L. Knapp (1975) Initiating communication: What do you say when you say hello?, Central States Speech Journal, 26:2, 115-125, DOI: 10.1080/10510977509367829 www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/1...!
Eibl-Eibesfeldt, I. (1972). Similarities and differences between cultures in expressive movements. In R. A. Hinde, Non-verbal communication. Cambridge U. Press. psycnet.apa.org/record/1973-2...
FULL PDF AVAILABLE Flecha-García, M. L. (2010). Eyebrow raises in dialogue and their relation to discourse structure, utterance function and pitch accents in English. Speech Communication, 52(6), 542-554 escholarship.org/content/qt1w...
Mann, S., Vrij, A., Leal, S. et al. Windows to the Soul? Deliberate Eye Contact as a Cue to Deceit. J Nonverbal Behav 36, 205-215 (2012). doi.org/10.1007/s10919-012-01... link.springer.com/article/10....
What is Anger - Paul Ekman Group www.paulekman.com/universal-e...
The Universality of Contempt: www.paulekman.com/wp-content/...
TIMESTAMPS
01:40 The Secret to Robert Downey Jr.'s Charisma
04:15 What can Eyebrows Scientifically Demonstrate?
16:24 Nonverbal Indicators of Stress
21:30 Does Robert Downey Jr. Hate This Question?
26:29 This is NOT The First Time this Happened
29:15 Robert Downey Jr. Analyzes Body Language!
31:50 The Question That Made RDJ Walk Out!
37:25 Freeze, Fight, Flight or FAWN?
#bodylanguage #psychology #behavioranalysis #behavioralpsychology #robertdowneyjr #ironman #mcu #marvel #readpeople #howtoreadpeople #quentintarantino #interview

[@TheBehavioralArts]

This is one of my favorite interviews ever in terms of facial expressions! I really hope you guys enjoy the more in depth analysis of some of the non verbal communication here. Let me know what you all think about "fawn"? Should it be included in the list of responses or do you agree with me on this one? A few additional thoughts aged reading the comments… 1) regarding the head tilt. Head tilt can happen in a multitude of situations (curiosity, scepticism, sympathy, boredom etc…) but it very rarely happens when threatened. I don’t mean head tilting means ONLY comfort, but it doesn’t happen when we feel threatened, our reflex is to protect the neck when threatened. So whatever he may be in that moment (disappointed, shocked, detached etc) he doesn’t seem overly threatened. And I think it’s that calmness that affects us inherently. 2) There’s also some great discussions in the comments about the term “nerd” and how it may not be insulting because some people use it to say they’re obsessed with something like I would be a “psychology nerd.” I personally think there’s a difference between “something- nerd” and just “a nerd.” I don’t think anyone would want to be called the later. Also, his tone doesn’t suggest, to me, that he means it as a compliment. What do you think? PS: I know there's a spelling mistake in "disgust." We caught it after the upload. :)

[@TheBehavioralArts]

@@janicebooy1007 you’re not wrong 😊. I’ve been a stage performer most of my life, we get very expressive with our faces and eyebrows to connect with the audience.

[@clarice1001nights]

Where do you get the photo examples you use to explain facial cues. I am a student of yours. Thx

[@nancywenn1093]

Janice Booy..,I thought the same thing! 😊. I would like to see Spidey analyze one of his own videos!!

[@tiggert4002]

I get the purpose of fight or flight, but what does freezing do? What purpose does it serve? Is it to take a moment to observe what is going on?

[@TheBehavioralArts]

@@tiggert4002 freezing is extremely helpful to survival due to the fact that most things in the wild that our ancestors were afraid of can both outrun and outfight them. Freeze helped us not draw attention to ourselves.

[@lisa_lamb]

This is a beautiful example of setting boundaries. Good for him.

[@davidohara7669]

Bingo!

[@michellecarter9697]

Spidey Spidey Spidey, Can You Get Any More Adorable? Your facial expressions are Priceless! "Irony" "Iron Man", again Priceless ❣️💋

[@cuddy4164]

You can set boundaries without being rude

[@NicolaMaxwell]

@@cuddy4164 removing yourself from a situation isn't rude

[@cuddy4164]

@@NicolaMaxwell The comment about Diane Sawyer he made was clearly meant as a petty insult, nothing more

[@Tina-si1gz]

RDJ has hit rock bottom, recovered and learned from it. Watching him in other interviews especially with his co-stars he always looks at them when they’re talking and is fully engaged. He’s quick to praise them in an almost proud father way especially with the younger actors. He’s come out stronger with humility and respect for others which is one reason I admire him so much. He gave the interviewer several chances to turn it back to the movie but this guy for some reason pushed him, showed complete lack of respect for his boundaries then acted surprised when RDJ stood and politely ended the interview. I think he handled his exit very well. He’s a mega star, mega talented and appears to be a really nice guy who deserves to treated as he seems to treat others.

[@spicyirwin5835]

Me too! Im so thankful he got in recovery selfishly bc I LOVE his compassion for others & not self centered!💜🙏💜😇

[@alanduff1054]

Well PUT...

[@belindasmith9638]

It's the "comments " section not the essay section. Blah blah

[@ohhuhhjustonemorething5501]

Very well said, Tina!! I'm sorry that "Belinda Blah-Blah" didn't understand your very well thought out comment---in no way was it an "essay" (and even if it was, she didn't have to read it, and could have just moved on). Oh well, you can't please everyone, I guess, but I did appreciate your thoughts and agree wholeheartedly 🙂 !

[@cac8793]

I loved your comment. Very nice explanation

[@marinab106]

Kudos to Robert. He showed the guy respect even when he didn't take his hint to back off, and politely showed the guy his boundaries. Good for him for walking out the way he did. Class. I felt complete empathy for Robert. People should just let it go already and move on, just like he did, and focus on his work, not on his private stuff. ♥️🇮🇹

[@bessieengel2988]

Bookstore

[@codeXenigma]

I think he is a huge inspiration because of his private life. He not only managed to work while an addict but after he hit bottom, he really bounced back proving it was possible. He didn't give up. But of course this interviewer wasn't looking to highlight this connection to the IronMan character, he was asking questions looking for bitchy gossip drama.

[@nevaclaborn3107]

More people need to walk out on interviewers who refuse to accept boundaries. Don Lemons, for instance, is so self centered and only intends to get his digs in and follow the agenda of the left. Evil always outs itself.

[@louann1472]

This made me sad for him. It’s like the interviewer is still punishing him for his past as if all he has overcome doesn’t matter. It’s such a low blow but totally reflects on what’s going on with the interviewer. Cheers for him getting up and walking out! Clear boundaries! What a class act!!!

[@laiorwyn]

This is what the whole industry does, it's so horrible! That thing with kevin hart in 2019 for the oscars, they wanted him to apologise again for something that he already apologised for 10 years before! If people can't move on and grow and have to keep lugging around their baggage because it just keeps being brought up then what else can they do? I think that head tilt was just.... ah, I see where this is going, I hope it doesn't, but I know what to do if it does... He knew his people had his back.

[@minitwink16]

This interviewer is annoying. RDJ handled this well

[@michael-4k4000]

Well the interviewer got what he wanted, they have replayed this video so many times on so many channels.

[@rubyjewell8222]

I was so so sad for him when the interview turned. He has overcome so much, why do people have to continually remind him if this part of his life. I am so proud of him removing himself!!!

[@Mikato1]

And its so hard to move on from your past when you have people that wont let you and want to chain you to it

[@rubyjewell8222]

@@lookingupwithwonder exactly!! He's known for not doing personal interviews because of all the junk with his father and abuse he's overcome. Any reporter knows this...this was an ambush and so glad his agent and team were in his side.

[@karenkunesch]

Totally agree. How dare the interviewer do this. RDJ even gave him chances to go back to movie questions. An interviewer should be good at reading people clearly this one didn’t pick up on the cues he was given. Not a good interviewer.

[@TheHippiemomma37]

My heart just broke for RDJ in that moment when the interviewer mentions his dad. His whole spirit just evaporated.

[@debbylou5729]

You’re right. He’s like, ‘after all I’ve done, how hard I’ve worked….it has to come down to this’

[@Stephanie-we5ep]

Robert handled this beautifully! This is a masterclass in dealing with passive aggressive jerks.

[@something-beautiful]

What a perfect example of how much more beneficial it is to interact with people in a respectful and kind manner, rather than being antagonistic and disrespectful. Shame on the interviewer. I absolutely love RDJ and have so much respect for him and the journey he’s been on. A true inspiration ❤

[@erikverboom5383]

At the end of the interview, it was interesting how the head tilt seemed to suggest he was actually kind of comfortable/relaxed as opposed to stress. I may have some insight into this as I'm often in a situation where I have to be polite even when I don't necessarily feel the other person is treating me with respect. The thing that happens with me is: as long as the other person is being inpolite, but not out of bounds, I perceive that the social pressure is on me not to escalate. That is, until the moment where they cross the line and all of a sudden I feel relaxed, because my anger is now understandable, even righteous. So I can shift to just dealing with the confrontation, free from obligation. I think that's what happened to RDJ here too. He was forced to sit there and take it because it's part of the job, but when the interviewer pushed it too far RDJ knew he could shut things down and get out of there.

[@erikverboom5383]

Also, thanks for the video Spidey, I always learn something from your videos!

[@TheBehavioralArts]

Wow! I actually think you just nailed this!!! Wow wow wow. That would perfectly explain why we see a contrast between calmness ( head tilt, vacant expression) and irritation (higher breathing and staring) Thanks for this comment it’s so well expressed and I think: dead on!

[@smolsand]

Wow, thats an interesting perspective. It makes a lot of sense too. I work in crisis intervention and I can resonate with what you are saying here. I'm just not sure I have ever been able to put words to it or describe what that experience is like.

[@sonaley]

Wow. Erik this is so so on point. When dealing with costumers, when your job is to receive and or process a complaint, this can very well be a normal reaction. Some people could say is the calmness before the storm, but to me is the calmness filling your bloodstream as you’re validating the reaction you are about to have, because you’re certain you have a point or the person has crossed a no no line. I’ve experienced this having people yelled at me, and that just got me to calm down to almost a point of numbness, in order to avoid a conflict where my response could be misconstrued. RDJ knew how things would be perceived if he acted aggressively, I think he handled it masterfully.

[@BrownEyedGirl1367]

Yes! Excellent!

[@travelinglight4656]

Good for him! Everyone thinks just because your a celebrity you have to answer ever question. I'm proud of this man

[@helenlizzystewart4908]

I think RDJ is brilliant so don't ask stupid personal questions to him

[@lyndachele]

My voicemail identifies me as "Nunya" as in Nunya business.

[@carriewhite7492]

dude i've seen this clip so many times and it never stops hurting my heart. i've been a fan of RDJ since we were kids and was in LA when he went through his meltdown. it's sooooooo out of line for a journalist to think they should bring it up during a press junket and it's so heartbreaking to watch RDJ try to fend it off and then be absolutely shocked that this guy keeps pushing and pushing. i've never thought he blew up on this guy. i've always thought his reaction is completely rational and more patient than i would have been.

[@BlueZirnitra]

He wasn't the right interviewer for the job. KGM is known mostly for hard hitting interviews with politicians where he is trying to get the truth for the public good. Doesn't excuse it but I don't know why this guy is doing a celeb interview when he doesn't care about pop culture.

[@dennisemosinski8851]

Loved this analysis. I thought it was great how RDJ let the interviewer know he was onto him with that foot comment. He gave the interviewer every chance to save himself. It makes you very aware of how difficult it can be as a celebrity to maintain composure. Loved the last little comment at the end of the interview.

[@starla.]

I believe some of Downey’s facial expressions, especially the one you pointed out as a key moment, were deliberate communications to the interviewer that, “I know what you are doing, proceed at your own risk.” I used that exact expression as a teacher. It was very effective in stopping trouble before it really started and keeping the learning on track. Ditto, the head tilt and watchful expression. Downey gave the interviewer several chances through body language (and verbal cues) to change course and have a successful interview.

[@tanyacarbajal3597]

I also think that he knew the interviewers reputation going in to the interview. He seemed slightly more reserved and cautious than in other interviews. I saw those warning signals too.

[@melanieperkins878]

Well said!

[@janedoex1398]

PLEASE explain the head tilt, for me it seems like fawning, almost like a dog in submission trying to say " please, let it go, I am not a threat" as he had not yet the ok to leave....

[@starla.]

@@janedoex1398 The head tilt with direct eye contact is a question to the offender, and a warning. The head tilt is the question, and the direct eye contact is the warning. In words, it would be this: “I know exactly what you are doing, and YOU know what you are doing, but you are not in charge here, you are zero threat to me, so are you really going to go down this path? I’m giving you one last chance to either change direction or hang yourself before I put an end to this.” It has to be coupled with complete stillness, and you have to be turned directly facing them, and focused 100% on them. Nineteen teenagers out of twenty will stop what they are doing, look down, and shrug as if to say, “Ok, I don’t want to go there.” I’ve seen parents give this same head tilt- direct stare warning to their child when their child pushes them too far. If you’ve seen Downey in other interviews you’d know it’s likely that Downey wasn’t exactly asking permission. He was making sure that his manager, or studio rep, or whoever it was to the side, saw what was going on (Downey: “You see this, right?”), and then he was letting them know that he wasn’t going to put up with that for long and to be ready.

[@katiedawson6337]

@@janedoex1398 Not the OP, but I think it was the version of the eyebrow flash that Spidey mentioned that parents do. The 'You think you're being sneaky, but I'm watching you, so think carefully about your next move' kind of look. Teachers and parents both do it. And you notice when Spidey demonstrated that flash, he tended to tilt his head. It seems like they go together in that expression

[@judessekiss9960]

Fantastic episode!! His disappointment was palpable when the interviewer wouldn't stop the personal questions. He isn't new to this, it's happened before and he knows what's coming. The head tilt was him saying "I'm really unhappy that you're doing this, but I'm gonna let you finish while I contemplate how to respond." It must be so depressing to realize that no matter what you do these people are always gonna bring up the past. I felt very sorry for him.

[@OnceUponaTimeline]

I wonder if the head tilt was him trying to seem less threatening, like maybe a peace gesture, like look I am trying to be friendly and I am relying on you to be kind instead of cruel. He may have studied body language and was trying to diffuse some tension and avert problems.

[@jonicompton333]

I felt bad for RDJ because he had come through a lot and is “done” with that bad part of his life. Rude interviewer. I’m glad RDJ walked out!

[@janedoex1398]

@@OnceUponaTimeline THAT'S what I thought, almost like a dog in submission exposes his neck in a last effort to seem less threatening , like: "Please let it go! "- basically could this be fawning ? As he couldn't win by leaving or answering at this point ?

[@carmenryan1453]

I adore Robert Downy! Every time I see him, I get such a feeling of sadness. I especially see it I his eyes. I can feel it so deeply in my soul. I’m so proud of him and his accomplishments. 🦋❤️

[@michellebeishline4657]

You are an empath. It is a blessing and a curse because you really feel others pain - not just acknowledge or see it, but feel it.

[@mamabear7579]

Before he leaves, you can observe his upper chest rising and falling. He was obviously becoming more and more uncomfortable. He managed his time of leaving pretty perfectly with his physiological responses to avoid total loss of control.

[@BlueZirnitra]

Known to us ordinary folks as "he was absolutely livid".

[@__rm307]

Good catch.

[@suehamlet8295]

Krishnan is full of himself. Good on RDJ for walking out & not taking his crap 😡❤️

[@stanleyplank]

Bashir is a nasty piece of work.....shame he wasn't there though.

[@tabaks]

He's smirking throughout the interview, quite pleased with himself. Also, his eyes show that he's quite self-absorbed there.

[@clives344]

Krishnan likes to live in the gutter

[@clives344]

@@scarletfalanges Totally Agree

[@tabaks]

@@joesender actually, that is EXACTLY what he was supposed to do.

[@flowergirl4612]

First. I love Robert Downey Jr. Yeah, he had mistakes in his past but we all have. Celebs are human beings just like everyone else. Everyone makes mistakes and I think its messed up when interviewers try to make the person they are interviewing look like a terrible person.

[@wintermonroe2894]

💯

[@Sg0212a]

this interviewer is known for trying to push buttons

[@starla.]

Yes! He worked hard to get clean, to get back in shape, and to rebuild his reputation. I don’t blame him for refusing to be defined by a short period in his past.

[@jessicaal415]

First. I am not a super fan of Robert Downey Jr, never have but I grew up during the time that he was messing up and knew about it. Seen him turn things around, still not a big fan of his movies. Seen his Marvels movies even, still not a fan. I love Marvels btw. HOWEVER I 💯agree that there is no need to keep on digging to the past. Many of these interviewers ask and say things to get a reaction and it’s pretty darn annoying.

[@annie-k5213]

I used to pray for him and his recovery. I applaud his walking out. These interviewers are sometimes just plain mean or rude, just so they can get a "story" or sensation.

[@rAbbitron_official]

His most underrated role was in Tropic Thunder. He was literally 4 different people in one scene. Robert who was playing an Australian actor who had pigment surgery and was disguised as a rice farmer. No one had ever pulled that off before him and has since either. Respect.

[@cardamom3804]

So much wrong with that movie. In all the right ways😂

[@tiffanybarefield1227]

Eddie Murphy has done it a few times

[@missroxanne7123]

This man has had a rocky past and pulled himself out of the armpit of hell to rise again. Kudos to him. Much praise.

[@yellowbmblbee]

I wouldn't call that 'anger' I would call that 'annoyance', 'dismissive' due to the stupid questions. This interviewer is a good example of why most of us hate the media.

[@LibraInSeattle]

Much respect to Robert Downey Jr. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to maintain sobriety in Hollywood. I’m 13 years clean and sober. I can see the work he’s done for his recovery in his work and many of his interviews . He’s obviously healthier and happier. Boundary setting is one of the things I’ve had to learn in my recovery journey and I’m still a work in progress in that area of my life. He’s obviously mastered it.

[@janedoex1398]

That's awesome ! 👌✌️🖐🤘 I wish I could say the same. I am so old and still so very on my own when it comes to help. My therapy sessions run out now after 4 years when I open up. GREAT. THANKS. I am drownibg- literally and as a chronic anorexic I don't know what my heart, liver and kidneys will take anymore.

[@LibraInSeattle]

@@janedoex1398 I am so sorry to hear this. I will definitely be praying for you. It’s frustrating to hear that treatment is limited by your sessions running out. 🙏🏼💜

[@janedoex1398]

@@LibraInSeattle Thank you for the kind words. I'm a bit ashamed I vented though this isn't about me. I just wanted to say I can't even imagine being 13 years sober. If I might ask , what is it that keeps - or kept you going during really bad days or what took it to decide " it's enough NOW, not the old: "I'll start tomorrow" - but to start today ?

[@jenifernadeau]

@@janedoex1398 perhaps I can offer you some resources. The so-called traditional ways of handling addictions and any other blockages in our energy systems that manifest as physical symptoms, will be breaking down and rebuilt properly. The system was set up for failure, especially big pharmas interference🤮😡 with our body temples. So what we want to manifest in the physical realm, has to manifest in the spiritual and energetic Realms first. We are only processing less than 5% of what goes on with our five senses. Whatever illness or pain or discomfort or body is experiencing, is in direct correlation to our connection or lack thereof, to Source /Creator. What I learned years ago, and what actually is successful, is working with energy. Because you are a spiritual being that is energy, that chose the human experience. It's powerful to recognize that we chose everything that ever happened to us and we brought everything to us that ever occurred. We are accountable for all of that because of our vibrational frequencies and our conscious choices. But we also have maybe some conscious programs running behind the scenes that need deprogramming There are lessons we each chose to learn here in each lifetime, so that is why we experience what we do. Everything is always working out for us because we are exactly where we are supposed to be. Some websites that might assist you are Centerforchange.com. Montenido.com, prosperityedwell.com. The third chakra, 💛 ✨ appears to be the most impacted with anorexia. And there is no such thing as a quest for Perfection I discovered, that's a lie told to us in our childhood. We are already perfect in every way, being in nature will reveal that to you. Because everything about nature is perfect. Whatever level of healing we are at on our soul journey is absolutely perfect. We are not here to compare or compete or gain approval from others. We have everything we need within us. (Dorothy in Oz wasn't wrong😉) Marisa Peer, Donna Eden... getting some Reiki, cranial sacral sessions, myofascial release can release old emotions because our issues are held in our tissues. But first we have to have them come to the surface so we can acknowledge, love, accep and release them with compassion and forgiveness for our inner child that created a false self in order to survive and get our basic needs met. What happens is, we keep running on the old programs as adults when we don't need to After we offer ourselves the love we didn't receive as children, then we will be able to do that for others. Those who programmed us as children within our families set us up to vibrationally attract the same patterns in others.. Elders who were also consciously and subconsciously doing it (because they hadn't done their own healing,) ex. clergypeople, teachers, media, peers, siblings, strangers, partners Etc . Belief systems that do not serve us as adults, create vibrational frequencies, patterns and habits that do not serve our highest self, or our souls purpose here. So we attempt to navigate the physical world by what we see in here in the approval we receive, which is actually illusion. Because whatever someone else does or thinks is a direct reflection of their belief systems, their experiences, how they View themselves, and how they are feeling at that exact moment when they're interacting with you. You cannot navigate that much going on in another person and try to anticipate it.. total waste of energy. Because then you are actually manipulating them by changing yourself to get a reaction out of them that makes you comfortable. And that is not unconditional love for another human. Unconditional love has to come for self first And all that navigating of another doesn't allow you to live in the present moment which is where joy peace and Bliss reside The Body, Mind and Spirit.. all require clearing & balancing 🤗 I typically suggest that people set their boundaries , find what brings them Joy and always set a time for that. Guilt and shame and fear are low of vibrational frequencies that other people want us to remain stuck in to make Them feel comfortable. But there is no one that can make us feel anything, especially guilt or same, that comes from within and must be cleared out And typically we fulfilled a role within our family that made OTHERS comfortable, because children typically serve some sort of unhealthy purpose for the family. But once we become adults, and find the strength to step out of that role and detach from what does not serve our higher selves..well, that makes many people uncomfortable LOL and they want to bring you right back to their low level. Wishing you strength and perseverance and the ability to recognize that what we perceive as negative, or obstacles, or what makes our bodies feel uncomfortable are merely just opportunities 😀to learn our earth lessons and blessings.. A gratefulness Journal works wonders as well. And we become what we see, so beautify your surroundings..get in nature.. and we are a product of the five people that are closest to us. Make sure they are high vibrational beings,find adults who are as high vibrational as animals and children are . Weall feel powerlessness as a child, but we are no longer needing to use the tactics we did as children, as adults. Ancestral clearing can't hurt..my friend Monica Gauvy Kerr is on fb and does a wonderful job with that.

[@Amber-yq9ee]

Very proud of you! & Even more happy for you! You're a rockstar! I'm working on my boundaries & setting them & sticking to them. But at times it feels hopeless!

[@bethwenner]

Fascinating as always. A few thoughts on fawning: As someone with PTSD who grew up in an abusive home, in my subjective experience, I think fawn does seem to be an automatic response to danger-not to buy time, but to cope with the threat of a person one has no choice about being around. It does seem specifically social, though, and not a response to inanimate or abstract dangers. It can be a way of comporting oneself to cope with what can’t be escaped: toxic families, toxic workplaces. Back before I started EMDR, I used to have a work environment reminiscent of the home I grew up in. I would fawn around certain coworkers as a way to solve their hostility, and not as a way to buy an opportunity to fight or flight. One woman was verbally and emotionally abusive, and when I had to confront the situation, at that time, my response was to cry and apologize, bake cookies and bring them to work, say words of admiration toward her, be in every way sweet, unassuming, and a doormat. It’s making oneself smaller, taking up less space, apologizing for existing, hoping not to draw attention or incur wrath. I can only speak subjectively and observationally, but it feels deeply tied to the way wolves will show submission to the dominant members of the pack, or the way, when dogs play too rough, the offending dog will throw itself down and show its belly. There is something submissive and groveling about fawning. You're not buying time; you're trying to make the offense go away by being less. It's sort of an, "I promise I'll be good; don't hurt me." Robert Downey, Jr.’s actions here seemed like a self-assured and confident attempt to defuse the situation with social finesse, which to me is antithetical to the fawning mindset. These days, I work at a law firm with coworkers who are decent human beings and I feel self-worth. I might try to make a difficult client laugh to defuse a tense situation if say they’re yelling on the phone, but if it turns to verbal abuse, I’m not showing my belly; I’m politely drawing a boundary and hanging up the call until they compose themselves enough to not swear and scream.

[@kamehaz]

This is a fantastic way of explaining fawning!

[@orlaspring363]

100% agree (At the same time, you've poignantly described much of my life.)

[@nikkigatlin4803]

I agree with what you’ve said here! I grew up in a similar way. And for years it had not let me set boundaries that I would have like to have set for myself in certain situations.

[@jaroslavkaspar6493]

This is an interesting point. However, I think we need to differentiate between instinctive and learned behavior. Because there is a difference between automatic and instinctive. This seems to me more like a conditional reflex. It surely is an absolutely automatic response, but unlike the "freeze, fight or flight", you aren't born with it and although it happens on a very low level, it still is higher, than instinctive reactions. I've been thinking about the wolves and I think, that in this case, it is a social behavior. I believe, that no wolf would do it in a situation with a real threat outside of the pack. For example when attacked by a wolf from a different pack.

[@asatage1482]

Although it is a learnt behaviour, it is still, at least in my experience reflexive. I believe it should be included as a part of the "flight, fight, freeze, fawn" category (idk if category is the right word), as it is a valid response, individual from the others. However, it's difference should definitely be noted and appreciated when compared with the others.

[@southernbellebornnbred7811]

RDJ is my all time favorite actor . Thank you for this! He set the "do no cross" boundaries, and he held the line. Good!

[@Djbetterjusthavingfun]

When the interviewer brought up his dad, yes it was sad, because you could see the pain of that topic on Robert’s face

[@jklubnik]

I went back and watched the interviewer's face when he started that line of questioning... the smirk gave him away, as well as lack of eye contact. RDJ saw it, and was already preparing.

[@TheBehavioralArts]

Great catch 😊

[@laurenvandever94]

One of the reasons why addicts in recovery fail and sadly a lot of them lose their life to it is because people don't let their past go. Someone like Robert Downey Jr deserves recognition and damnit praise for hitting rock bottom and coming back better. To me it appears that he knows that and is comfortable with setting boundaries. Leave the man alone. He's not the same person that hit rock bottom. Let him be free of it.

[@SydMountaineer]

You’re right, Spidey, RDJ did not snap. He gave many chances, if someone keeps pushing, you have to stop them, and the level at which he stopped him was less rude than the interviewer.

[@heidimedel]

I love Robert Downey Jr. He's always seemed like a super nice guy with a good heart and brains. Everybody makes mistakes. He rose above his. I wouldn't want to beat that dead horse either. He reacted very politely, considering the disrespect he was getting.

[@biancas7624]

That head tilt means, "you gotta be f*cking kidding me right now."

[@LinaGenX]

More people should walk out of interviews. It's the only way some reporters will learn that people have boundaries

[@dumbdonny4824]

I 100% fall victim to the fawn response. I think it hugely comes from being raised by narcissists where your means of surviving was to worship and fawn over your parents even with they cause fear and danger. I even had dreams when i was younger where i would fawn over something or someone trying to chase and hurt me as a means of trying to befriend the enemy/ monster for survival. I don't have these responses in my dreams as much anymore as I'm not trapped in any circumstance of abuse but I'm still trying to break that response in real life.

[@kamehaz]

Yes! I have been a foster parent and I definitely see fawn used as a survival mechanism in children with abusive, neglectful, or disassociated parents. That's then carried over to other parts of their lives too. But I totally understand Spidey's point of view too. It's definitely a learned response and not a reflexive one.

[@dumbdonny4824]

@@kamehaz 100% thank you for this comment

[@carolwillissimsak758]

When he is asked about his father, his breathing changed. Watching him I felt emotional pain in my chest

[@EatingAnElephant]

I think the head tilt was him trying to give the guy the benefit of the doubt. We look at our kids that way when they are explaining why their toys are floating in the blue water. As soon as he realized where the question was going he snapped his head straight and made his decision as to where HE was gonna go with the answer. Bye! RDJ is a class act, as always!

[@TheBehavioralArts]

Nice! I like that theory a lot. So just utter disappointment.

[@carolineben-ari2798]

@@TheBehavioralArts That's exactly how I took it: "Seriously?! You're going THERE??!!" {metaphorical disappointed head shake}

[@melissaspurgeon7419]

I appreciate how respectful you are. You’re always respectful of the people you speak about and analyze in these videos. You are also always respectful of other’s opinions. I just wanted to stop and let you know that your kindness doesn’t go unnoticed!

[@martina5296]

Robert Downey, Jr. is probably one of a very very very few genuinely nice celebrities when he's interviewed. He's patient and polite and nice. Not overly friendly and laughing like the majority of celebrities. He was way too patient with this interviewer who was asking questions that really weren't needed to be asked. His job was to help promote a movie not get into his past and his relationship with his father. Yet, even when he left he wasn't really rude. Good for him for leaving when he didn't like where the interviewer was going. On the other side, many interviewers should do the same when they are patronized and trying to be controlled when they are just doing their job. Even if they ask, possibly controversial questions about recent events that the celebrity was involved in a professional tone. I think this interviewer crosses boundaries where he shouldn't even go and that's what he enjoys even if he gets nervous before he throws down the pleasantries. He didn't even stand up and apologize for making RDJ leave. He probably thinks he did nothing wrong or rude.

[@satanxkxtten]

31:00 I also felt sad watching his facial expression, Spidey. I noticed his breathing increased a lot too. I'm glad he walked out at that moment.

[@dixieestep9342]

I think everyone that saw this felt pain in that moment. I don't know when this interview was, but his Father recently died this year. When someone mentions the name of someone very close to you that died recently your heart beats fast as your memories come up. Grief processing is lifelong and lessens with healing. The interviewer is an ass and I believe poking someone in an interview that is clearly meant with an intent to show power of I gotcha, you are now on the spot personally should be met with a fine of the interviewer AND the company they represent. Enough of the bullshit crossing boundaries. Diane Sawyer should have been fined years ago for her abusive tactics. People shouldn't be on trial doing a job. This needs to stop somewhere. Boundaries are good. Good for RDJ for showing us what an ass this interviewer is.

[@abigailsanchez3]

When you discussed fawning I immediately thought of a woman being hit on in public. The instinct to be polite while trying to remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible, searching for an exit, or finding a helping hand from a friend or stranger. IMO, it comes down to doing what needs to be done to deescalate until you can find safety.

[@delia8392]

had the same thought

[@nicolecolvin3538]

I would fawn in my past relationship. He was bigger then me so fight was out, and there was no where to run to so flight was out and so I would fawn. I did it subconsciously. So I do think fawn should be on that list because it was (and sometimes still is) my go to reaction.

[@Yukonlass]

I thought about women who fawn with their rapists to try and escape or lessen the severity of attack. I agree it's not an impulse, more of a learned behaviour.

[@laronan5599]

I agree with you Spidey at 30:47 I felt that sadness as well. I heard many years ago that Robert's relationship with his father was rocky because certain things in his childhood and the issues everyone knows about from his past, but he at the time of this interview was in a good place with his father and I feel like the interview triggered those bad memories. All in all the interviewer is very disrespectful and doesn't have the emotional intelligence to understand when someone is hurting.

[@OneDawn4All]

This was a fascinating study!! 2 points begged further consideration for me: 1. As both an introvert and caregiver to several tots on the autism spectrum, the assessment of loss of eye contact always gives me pause, because we (introverts and those on "the spectrum") often just need a break from the intensity of maintaining eye contact. I think, as you are always very consistent to remind us, that behavior alone cannot be used to conclusively assess a speaker's demeanor. It necessarily has to be evaluated within context/ in conjunction with other behaviors presented. 2. I believe I understand your opinion of the addition of "fawn" to the description; however, I feel like it may be oversimplifying the complexity of human interactions. I actually do think it could be considered an additional defense mechanism, if you will, because those who employ it are often attempting to diffuse the "crisis"/threat, thereby hoping to avoid- not just delay- having to choose between fight or flight. Just my 2 cents from a NON expert but lifelong observer and caregiver!

[@stephaniecornwell8766]

I’m a mom of two with autism and I understand the eye contact thing. That’s why Spidey always stresses how important it is to understand the baseline of someone you are looking at/evaluating

[@michellebeishline4657]

Your persective is very interesting. As someone who recovered from CPTSD I can tell you that the responses (fight, flight, fawn) are not conscious and especially in just minutes of time. The nervous system kicks in and reacts. This man, RDJ, has had massive therapy and self-work. Mad respect for anyone who has the courage and strength to do the work. Thank you for your perspective, and esp from the spectrum lens.

[@suemagic8864]

Spot on Spidey, i felt that despair as well. Totally inappropriate questions for a movie promotion . Made me angry at this interviewer 😡

[@LoucheWoman]

How much do we all love the camera guy at the end, looking at the interviewer like, "You are SUCH an idiot."

[@elizabethandiosa4579]

I like this interview because Robert Downey addresses the disrespect, puts it back on the disrespectful, and walks away . It teaches that we do not have to tolerate inappropriate behaviors nor answer personal questions. As far as fawning goes, it is a learned response that involves a high degree of assessment of an ugly situation. It does buy time and safe passage into fight or flight. Depending on your danger level, one is able to position themselves and take peripheral note of the objects around them, escape routes and any items that can be used as weapons while maintaining an affable facade. It's similar to giving jerks enough rope to hang themselves. Fawning is also a fear based trauma response and is highly effective in calming a situation.

[@mygeekdom4414]

You could see the absolute delight when RDJ got up. Happy that his publicist gave him his power back by saying the interview is over.

[@Viridian-Lawnerd]

I think fawn is usually a response rather then a reflex. I also think that it can become a learned reflex in some people who have experienced a lot of trauma. If you find yourself repeatedly in situations where freeze, fight, and flight don't help you, and fawn is the only thing left to mitigate the harm then it can become your default response to threats over time. I think that's why it's included in my PTSD books.

[@TheBehavioralArts]

Beautifully explained. 🤗

[@thefamilywhite2149]

Yes, there are so many times kids growing up in abusive homes don't have the chance to fight or take flight, and freezing doesn't help, so we learn very quickly to fawn. And then it becomes such a fast response that it appears as reactive as the other three.

[@seedsoflove7684]

Survival technique. Cant fight back, cant run away, just gotta play along.

[@coriade]

I think it is as much a coping mechanism as the other 3 types. Fawning is a response particular to social threatening situations. Not "i've heard a strange noise outside" threatening situation. The only way to get a fawn response is to have a human social interaction that might trigger a person's same fear and survival mode on. So abuse experienced in relationship with other humans teaches us the fawning response, not the wild beasts that hunted us down. That's how I see it.

[@seedsoflove7684]

@@coriade yes, but when u cant leave the problem permanently, u might learn to fawn long term, to survive and prevent more abuse. This leads to continuous stress as u always have to be pretending to be nice, leads to PTSD, suicidal thoughts, fibromyalgia, depression, overeating, etc. Very wearing to keep it up and sad...

[@jamuswe]

I believe the last part with his breathing and all was from stress of keeping his emotions I.e. anger, disbelief, and frustration at an appropriate level. I am very familiar with it because I do it a lot. I believe he, like me, was taught and learned that your feelings don't give you a pass to act just any kind of way and that we are still held responsible for what we do and say, regardless of what we felt or was experiencing.

[@VA_MamaBear]

Beautifully said, sir. I will caution, though, that frequent transgressions should result in a polite but swift exit. No one should be brought to that point repeatedly by people in their life. RDJ showed great control, but he also showed the interviewer that he respects himself enough to leave when someone is intentionally provoking him.

[@jamuswe]

@@VA_MamaBear Absolutely!

[@chanteleigh]

I think the reaction to the question about his father is even more interesting when put into context with the fact that he only recently finished his film "Sr.", a project he worked on with his father for about a year before his death in 2021. It was a deeply personal, one-on-one, father-son experience.

[@marissa.r.roybal]

The head tilt... He's assisting compassion for this poor dude who obviously doesn't have control of his position. Robert has worked hard to get to the point he was at here. This interviewer is asking someone else's questions. I'm so proud of RDJr.

[@hamilton8122]

Johnny Depp will always be my favorite but Robert is right there. This man has been threw hell several times and has overcome it. And still doing movie’s he’s amazing.

[@queerskiesahead847]

Wow, that interviewer really did go way too far. I think RDJ's actions were as polite and professional as possible considering how heavy hitting that question must have been for him. I really enjoy your videos so much. I have a BA in psych and masters in Social Work so I have always loved studying human behavior and I really like how you break things down.

[@VITeach]

I think he was briefly saddened by the memory of past events when he realized where this was mostly likely going and then he very quickly shifted into “not going down this road again” mode. He then looked for the quickest best way out. Great job!

[@atomic_xfire]

One of the greatest aspects of this channel, is how you approach your subject. This sort of analysis can be incredibly dehumanizing. But you manage to offer dignity, even to those you begin to pick apart. And it becomes all about observation and how the subject's choices and environmental responses form. Really excellent video.

[@AlexaCBrown]

It hurts my heart that the interviewer made Robert Downey Jr feel uncomfortable, but so much respect that Robert walked away, with grace and respect... For himself 💝💌💝

[@robertajackson7166]

I'm just coming across your channel 1 yr later. Great analysis. As you mentioned RDJ knows about body language and he was observing the interviewer the whole time. I'm pretty sure he did research on him to see who he was dealing with. As you mentioned RDJ's body language changing and probably as an result of the interviewers. Once RDJ got to the part where he observed the foot movement he knew the big one was coming. You could see it in his stare as he tilted his head. When the interviewer showed his true colors and mentioned his father. You could see RDJ breathing harder his chest was moving. His eyes peirced through the interviewer and he tilted his head over to the right and then asked, What are we doing here? That was priceless!! In those few seconds he searched within himself to see if he would rip him a part verbally or not. When the interviewer went low... RDJ went High!! Well Done RDJ... Well Done!! At the end as he started walking out I think the interviewer was scared and his body language was showing fear, anxiety, and thats why he didn’t know what to do with his hands and kept rubbing his nose. Plus, he didn’t know if he was about to get knocked out. But as RDJ was there to promote a movie and not drama.

[@Joey-dv8hb]

I didn't hear him call him a schmuck, but I love it because the interviewer is a schmuck. It's making me giggle

[@BookishDark]

Adore RDJ. I don’t see how people see this as his blowing up on this guy - he stays so calm! As a kid of the 80’s, he’s definitely using “nerd” in a negative way - that’s the meaning it predominantly had for that generation (not that they can’t use it positively, they can - he isn’t here). And yes, I definitely felt sad for him. He does one deeper breath/sigh as he’s sitting there and the head tilt with it feels like, “god…I’ve come so far…cmon man…why can’t we keep this light?”

[@deadpaul]

I think you are right about "nerd". It was not used as a possible positive until the 90s in my experience, when the computer boom made nerdiness if not cool, as least lucrative.

[@Pixie_Beauty_Studio]

And just when I thought I couldn't love him more! Atta boy 💜

[@emilyketcham3573]

the iron-y joke followed by your laugh made me laugh out loud 😂 I love a good pun.

[@johardy7051]

I really love watching these clips, no messing around and straight to the point and so much information! Great work!

[@judithstewart9116]

RD jr is such a class act. I did feel sad for him when the interviewer started talking about his relationship with his father

[@triciabooker3076]

One of my all time favorite actors. Talk about rising from the ashes.

[@monicamomney8756]

Yep, you picked my favorite interview. Entertainers can have healthy boundaries and strong values. He’s proof of it.

[@shaunabaker6346]

This is a great video. I love the way you have explained various facial expressions and nuances, and particularly that you have added that each can mean more than one thing. Many make the mistake of assuming a certain expression means one thing when they do not know the person personally. I too felt sad for RDJ in the end. He has always been one of my very favourite actors/people and he must have thought, "My God when are these people ever going to give me a break?" Yes he is on the public stage, but that doesn't mean people can delve into every aspect of his personal life. It is so rude. Lastly, I applaud RDJ for speaking his truth about ending the interview and making it quite clear but in a genuine way that he is ending it due to the unwanted invasion of his privacy. The way actors/actresses and others employed by Hollyweird are treated in that industry, I'm surprised more of them don't go absolutely apeshit more often. Great video and I think you are spot on. Thank you.

[@deniseward8003]

Spidey, I loved this video: It’s so instructive. I’m no expert, but I agree with your comments on “fawn,” especially where RDJ is concerned. He knows how to handle himself, and he does it with such patience and grace. I think he basically defused the situation so that he could take flight with his own dignity intact and, perhaps create a teachable moment for the interviewer. Make that multiple teachable moments. He’s a class act and you’re not too bad yourself. 😊

[@lyndachele]

I think he was distanced but socially polite. So the interviewer was not controlling him. He was in control at all times. He was working, there to discuss the movie not his personal life. The Diane Sawyer comment showed he knew exactly what this jerk was trying to do.

[@applegal3058]

Sometimes fighting or running away can make things even worse as a child who's being abused. I totally understand what you're saying. If I'm really threatened, I'll freeze and stay frozen because past experiences tell me if I say or do anything will only make it worse for me.

[@alphashewolf9109]

This particular interviewer seems to do what he can to "set off" his interviewees. He's not genuine. Tarrentino played right into his hands, which is right where he wanted him.

[@vikkitee4686]

The head tilt, while looking straight at the interviewer was him saying .... Really? I gave you a chance and you are going there. I've done this look with my son

[@margoswikehardt9472]

As an addict in recovery 5 years sober rdj is a hero to me. Kudos to him for even when angry keeping composure and respectfully ending the interview. Not many people would have been so calm and collected about it.

[@zxy78267]

I have a daughter who is in recovery and doing really well. She went from absolute rock bottom (she nearly died) to getting a really good job, an apartment, and is able to care for her son again. I'm extremely proud of her. I thought we'd lost her forever. I don't bring up when she was off the rails, because it makes her feel ashamed, and shame is literally the most damaging emotion. I feel like we need to lift people up when they do what seemed impossible at some points. Good on you for conquering your addiction. I am proud of you as well.

[@margoswikehardt9472]

@@zxy78267 thank you I appreciate it very much. And kudos to your daughter for bringing herself out of that hole she was in. It's a very hard thing to overcome. It takes a lot of strength and determination. Im truly happy that you didn't lose her, like so many families lost loved ones to addiction.

[@dalevintage]

I have mad respect for how Downey handled thus whole thing. As professional as possible at such blatant disrespect.

[@the_keeperofchaos]

I have so much respect for him. More celebrities should be willing to walk out when the interviewer is not respecting boundaries

[@annie-k5213]

Totally agree! Sometimes those interviewers ask the most asinine questions.

[@TerraUmbraVampWriter]

I felt pain from Robert in that moment too. His expression yes, or froze he became, but it was his breathing that really made me feel pain. The face was angry, but something in the shape of the eyes and his breathing screamed pain.

[@MsAnemoi]

that is what I saw more too.. the breathing speeded up.. and I think he still handled the situation so well despite that.. I probably wouldnt stayed that calm.

[@TerraUmbraVampWriter]

@@MsAnemoi If I were breathing that way, I don't think I would have responded as well either.

[@srarisa3362]

Wow, great analysis! I think the concept of "fawn" has been introduced as an internalized response to abuse. A repeatedly abused child learns to be harmless and appease the abuser as soon as he recognizes signs that may threaten his safety. The child depends on the caregiver, cannot fight or escape, the only way to save himself is by making the aggressor not get angry anymore: smile, say yes, apologize, bow his head, obey without offering conflict... and he will repeat it in his adult life if he is faced with the same thing and believes that he cannot escape or fight. Showing the neck can be a way of saying: look, I'm harmless, I'm not going to hurt you, please don't hit me. I think someone can also freeze as a reaction if he is not capable to run away or fight (learned helplessness). Anything to get out of the situation and not think about the pain or the threat. Which can lead to addictions that give comfort like compulsive eating or that take oneself out of reality like drugs and alcohol. I believe that animals can also react this way if they have been mistreated by their keepers. Some time ago I adopted a puppy and at first, when I took the broom to sweep, he got scared because he had been beaten on the farm where he was born. He didn't run away or get violent, he just crouched down and moaned like he was asking me not to hit him :(

[@mycatsnameiskaren8253]

Yeah! Neither of my cats ever "fawn" when they hear a loud noise or experience confrontation. Luckily for them, they have the "scary, fluffy" tail response 🤔 😉 🐈 ❤️

[@TxCarrie]

I definitely felt sad when i saw his face. RDJr was so polite. It was almost like he thought, "after so I've done, i will never live down my past," I loved the facial expressions during the rest of the interview.

[@sondra4789]

When a mom does it to a kid it’s a facial exclamation point. I have 4 children and I used this when they were (they’re grown) about to have a bad day. But they still had a chance to avoid it if they took a look at their life and changed their choices. (Aka it’s a warning).

[@TheBehavioralArts]

hahahaha! "facial exclamation point" I love that! It literally is the perfect explanation of the brow flash. Seriously, it explains every use of it! Wow, I just might have to borrow this lol.

[@a.kenneth3521]

Yes! It’s ‘the look.’ Every Mom has one to give. Every kid who’s got a Mom has seen it. We all know what it means. The Look.

[@sondra4789]

@@a.kenneth3521 lol exactly! I communicated mostly nonverbally with my children when in public. They’re the age I was back then now and they still joke about my many “looks”. 😂 it’s hilarious. I guess it started with my best friend in school: we communicated in social situations non-verbally. We could have whole conversations without using words. Man I miss her!!

[@jodyariewitz7349]

Good for him...He didn't owe that man anything!! He clearly wasn't comfortable with this and the interviewer had zero respect!!

[@violetgc6049]

"Fawn" is 100% is a survival tactic, right up there with fight, flight and freeze. When we are talking about fawning we are specifying that the threat or stressor is another person. In this sense, fawn is synonymous with "placate." Meaning, you are attempting to avoid danger by placating or satisfying a perceived interpersonal, relational threat, or are attempting to avoid a negative repercussion in an interpersonal situation, i.e. abandonment, shame, or abuse. So no, you can't placate or appease a loud noise. But you can, as a survival strategy, reflexively attempt to placate a perceived threat of an angry or rejecting partner, or parent or peer so as to avoid physical, phycological or emotional harm. "Fawning" can become a conditioned response over time as well, but the first time one employs fawn is typically going to be under duress.

[@crisfield4364]

I was thrilled that somebody stood up to a reporter insistence in asking intrusive questions. I'd love to see more people just say "No, we're not going to do this," like Tarantino did. Good on Robert Downey, Jr. for walking out. Some of the questions that reporters and interviewers ask are maddingly rude, just plain stupid, or both.

[@AntaresSelket]

I feel for Robert in this interview. Yes, I felt the sadness too. People don't have a drug problem as bad as Robert did without having trauma in your past and here is this interviewer bringing it all up. I give Robert full credit for walking off, but putting in a dig before he stepped through the door. Robert is quick witted, and quick thinking, and extremely impatient with fools. A policy I agree with. Great dissection.

[@bibiyr3699]

What has to be taken into consideration is that there were preset limits for the questions. So some of what is happening is he is checking with is people to see if the limits were communicated, understood, and agreed too. So when his people are confirming these limits were expressed, and at the end confirming there is justification for leaving because he had repeatedly crossed over those limitations that were communicated and understood by all involved. Aside from that, these two have had past interactions since both ha e been in their respective businesses for many years. The interviewer knows RDJ's history, loving and contentious relationship with his father and his past struggles with drugs. It is clear this interviewer is poking the bear on purpose, and RDJ is probably asking himself if the interviewer is really wanting to take the interview off course, and in such a sleazy manor, given the agreed upon limits for the interview.

[@michaelblair7141]

Robert Downey Jr. handled this SO WELL! This is the best poise I have seen from someone as frustrated and angry as he (RDJ) had to have been feeling at those inappropriate questions that are completely irrelevant.

[@boozumbuddybulliesburgesse4324]

I don’t think he meant ‘nerd’ in a negative context but rather quantifying his depth of interest in the matter . He used ‘nerd’ as a point of reference of extremes

[@sonaley]

I couldn’t agree more with your FAWN explanation. Reactions should be analyzed as such, and Fawn is an educated response, not a reaction. Actually, listening to you it hit me that fawn is a negotiation tactic when we are threaten or trying to get someone else to safety (like ransom situations). In my own experience, fawn has been used as a facade for a fight reaction, at the very moment my brain clicks and understands fighting is not appropriate for the situation (work environment) or could risk someone’s life (gun held robbery)

[@williamjenkins4913]

I am morally a pacifist but I'm wired for fighting. If someone jump scares me I am the guy that is going to knock their block off but I fawn if I have time to make a decision.

[@lovelightjoy1868]

I don't remember the interviewer's name but I've seen him several times with different actors and I've always found him a rude and ignorant character. He wants to create sensation, make a scoop and not only he's not able to do it properly but if he's interested in real big and good investigative journalism, he should have the balls to interview politiciants, corporative businessmen and dictators to begin with not entertainment people. Acting this way he can only be defined as a miserable paparazzi. As always I love your analysis and I thank you deeply for your well done job. I adore you, many blessing!

[@robertafierro5592]

Fantastic video! I learned alot this morning! Thanks!

[@andreawhite2682]

I love Robert Downey Jr and think he composed himself as well as anyone could when being blind sided by unrelated and unplanned questions. I too felt sad for him. Almost like he felt like he couldn't escape something from the past no matter what he does.

[@michelewebb7259]

I DID feel a bit of sadness, for him, when he walked out!!I got the feeling the interviewer, was trying to "dig up" his past & I think that RDJ realized they were getting further AWAY from talking about his movie. Glad he walked off, like a gentlemen!!

[@ForgetMeNotAKNY]

Thank you for the subtitles reinforce the information as you are saying . Super helpful to me. Great job!

[@rebeccasorensen7925]

Love watching you. Very likable. Have always loved RDJ. Good for him.

[@lalalevej2478]

Thank you for doing this one, Spidey!! I know a few people that have met him over the years, and every one of them have said the same thing: The Infamous RDJ is insanely charming (surprise) and loaded with kindness and empathy for his fellow man. He's kind of a legitimate superhero!

[@corbyrobinson3640]

When RDJ was being asked about his relationship with his father I too saw the sadness on his face and empathetically felt it as well. I have seen this interview in the past and honestly have always been impressed by RDJ's composure in this scenario. Personally, I think that the interviewer was either coached into or felt he would get more traction from his interviews by getting a rise out of his guests.

[@savannahgary6351]

I too saw the sadness on RDJ's face and actually teared up for him. So proud of the way he handled the disrespect with dignity and respect! Teachable moment indeed...💜

[@angel_d99]

Absolutely. This interviewer enjoys pissing people off n getting them to either squirm in their r seat or start a fight... Such a cheap interview tactic

[@justusfox693]

Kudos to RDJ because I would have lost it if someone asked a personal question like that. He was so composed. You just don’t know how people cope and a question like that is a horrible invasion of privacy. That look in response to the question made me sad too. It looked to me like he was so defeated by the thought of answering that question.

[@adamstevens5518]

Your channel concept is really timeless since the things you discuss are applicable in all sorts of situations and at all times. Kind of fun, too, to go back to these interviews I’ve seen before and get another perspective on things.

[@crystalhyuga5679]

The fawn response makes so much sense. Working in retail as a manager, when dealing with upset customer(and some of them show very clear threatening behaviour) there is the fawn response. We try to befriend the customer, make them think we are on their side, let them know we aren't a threat so there is no reason to be up in arms.

[@judessekiss9960]

Very true! I've worked in customer service for years and learned that if someone is angry or aggressive that if I give them an empathetic response it usually helps defuse things. I think fawning is something relatively "new" in the scheme of things that we've developed because we have more and more personal interactions with large numbers of people.

[@seedsoflove7684]

@@judessekiss9960 i went to the nurse for blood work, i had fasted and now it was noon. She was trying to explain sth, but i was confused. When i asked, she seemed miffed. So i paused, said, "sorry, i wasn't trying to cause a problem, I'm just a bit hungry." That seemed to diffuse the situation. She took blood, with no pain, and i praised her. All ended well, but i could see the tension there for a minute.

[@krispycritter365]

I found your channel from the shout-outs you get from Scott on the Behavior Panel. Thank you for making your channel. I love your videos and learn a lot while being entertained. With all that said , I would LOVE to see an analysis of that full Tarantino interview! Thanks for all that you do!

[@efortlight]

Excellent, eloquent and much appreciated🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@boozumbuddybulliesburgesse4324]

Initially he seems humored and intrigued and searching the recesses of his mind regarding NYT quote then all changed when he realized the interviewers angle

[@BovisStercus]

Robert Downey, Jr., as Sherlock Holmes in "A Game of Shadows". In the scene where they are eating hedgehog goulash. He takes a booze bottle and sucks the last few drops out. As an alcoholic, I've done that. It struck me how well he used previous life experiences to flesh out his character.

[@enchantedstudios1078]

He looked like the question brought back a sad moment in Robert's passed.

[@Jennifermcintyre]

Thank you for explaining everything in terms of the body language. RDJ is so enduring and likable especially for the person he’s become. Unlike many in Hollywood who get caught up in the party scene and are haunted by their addictions…RDJ overcame them and is an amazing family man and successful actor. He’s earned respect and this “journalist” though he could was going to dredge up ancient history and bring up irrelevant topics… RDJ gave that nobody the gift of his time to do one thing.. promote his movie and he disrespected him. Respect RDJ all the more for his response…

[@clojay11]

Thank you Spidey just overall for your content. Had a bad week and a nightmarish day and I get home and a new Spidey video and your analysing RDJ I mean this is exactly what I needed. Total stress killer and pure edu-tainment Thank you spidey

[@TheBehavioralArts]

I’m glad you’re feeling better 🤗

[@clojay11]

@@TheBehavioralArts :-)