What Does Holding Hands Mean to a Guy: 3 Important Information on Hand-holding

It is important to note that although more men tend to have their hands on top of their partners hand, this fact does not reveal who initiated the hand holding.

Here are the common ways people hold hands and the meaning associated with them.

1. INTERLOCKED FINGERS

Interlocked fingers are considered as one of the most intimate ways of holding hands. When partners interlock their fingers, it generally sends a message that they are emotionally connected and committed to each other romantically. Their relationship is in a happy state as both partners crave each other intimately.

It is unlikely that a guy or lady who is not romantically attracted or committed to a person will hold them like this in public places. They would not want people to have the wrong perception about them.

2. INTERLOCKED PALM

Inter-locked palms are another intimate way of holding a partner. It shows that both partners genuinely care for each other and would love to be in sync. In most cases when partners hold hands like this, the man’s hand is usually the one on top which can be seen as a good thing. It means that he values her a lot and is committed to being with her. When the relationship is young and flourishing, men tend to initiate the holding of hands.

There are few instances when friends would hold each other like this. But if this is a common occurrence, then the person who usually initiates it is into the person they frequently hold hands with.

3. LOOSELY HELD FINGER OR HAND

When partners hold their hands loosely, this could be interpreted in three ways. The interpretations are also dependent on the facial expressions of both partners.

• Firstly, it could send a message that although they respect and care for each other, they might be having conflicting interests. This little friction can be resolved but if prolonged, a partner might make drastic resolutions that will affect the way they view their partner and relationship. Both parties crave understanding, fairness, and maturity in handling their little differences and usually, this interpretation is derived from the plain facial expressions of both partners. They avoid staring at each other or just one partner does the staring.
• Secondly, it could mean that they are in a playful mood. This is usually backed by both parties smiling or staring randomly at each other.
• Lastly, it could also be interpreted as both parties having huge respect for each other. They are emotionally connected but are not clingy partners. This will be obvious in their interaction. They are cooperative. They respectfully seek each other’s opinions, guide each other’s movement while walking together, and are willing to separate from each other for a few moments before reuniting again. This is usually done to accomplish tasks faster.

4. WRIST GRIP OR SQUEEZED HAND

Usually, when a person grabs the wrist of their partner, they try to grab both wrists in a standing or static position. This is done to convince their partner or reach an agreement. This obviously sends a message that both partners are not in agreement. One partner has definitely lost a lot of interest in the relationship or topic of discussion. The wrist grip is usually firm but not tight. The partner who is being held can break free from the grip when they want.

A single wrist grab shows possessiveness and possibly an abusive partner. A person that grabs their partner by the wrist may have little regard or respect for them, their privacy, and their ability to make independent decisions that are in their self-interest. They are often imposing and condescending towards their partners.

5. ELBOW GRIP OR LINKED ARMS

This type of hand-holding is usually seen at glamorous events or dinner dates. The female partner grabs the male partner by his elbow joint while walking. A man that walks with his partner in this manner is usually confident of her and is not afraid to show her off as his partner. Also, it might be seen as an act of submissiveness on the part of the woman. She allows her man to take the lead. This is a respectful and loving way of holding a person’s partner.

6. GENTLE HOLD OF BACK HANDS

This type of hand-holding is mostly done by men in romantic relationships. When they hold a lady this way, they most times lift it up to the length of their stomach, chest, or face depending on their posture. Men hold ladies this way when they want to kiss their hands,  propose to them, pray with them, have a deep conversation, or simply admire their partner to flirt with them. Men also hold their partner this way to reassure them of their commitments & promises. It is unlikely that a man who isn’t emotionally committed or connected to a woman will hold her in such a manner.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

• What is the significance of holding hands?

Holding hands is a non-verbal way of communicating affections. A lot can be interpreted from how people hold each other. It could range from deep bond or intimacy for each other to conflict or just a mere friendly gesture. It is however unlikely that opposite sex friends of mature ages will frequently hold hands in public view.

• If a guy holds your hand does he like you?

It is highly unlikely that a guy who dislikes or hates you will hold your hands at will. If he holds your hands frequently, especially in public view, then yes, he probably likes you a lot. However it is equally important not to assume he likes you if he has not made his intentions towards you clear. Ask him whether he likes you. Find ideas on how to ask a guy how he feels about you, how to ask a guys what he wants from you & how to talk to your boyfriend about the future

• What does it mean when a guy wants to hold your hand?

When a guy who is in relationship with you holds your hand, it is a way of communicating his affections for you. It might be a way of trying to bond or arouse an intimate connection between the both of you. It might also be his way of letting people know how he feels about you, in a way, trying ‘mark territory’.

CONCLUSION

 How a person holds you may tell a lot about their affections towards you. There are many ways people hold hands and we’ve listed 6 alongside their perceived interpretations. If you are confused about the signals you are getting from a person due to the way they are holding your hands, we hope that this article has been helpful. You might also find this article interesting: when should you give up on a relationship

REFERENCES

• Pettijohn, T. F., Ahmed, S. F., Dunlap, A. V., & Dickey, L. N. (2013). Who’s got the Upper Hand? Hand Holding Behaviors Among Romantic Couples and Families. Current Psychology, 32(3), 217-220.
• Smith, J. C. S., Vogel, D. L., Madon, S., & Edwards, S. R. (2011). The power of touch: Nonverbal communication within married dyads. The Counseling Psychologist, 39(5), 764-787.