Definition
Poles
Each HES element is a spectrum, not a category: the Low and High poles describe how it presents at its two extremes, while the Reference marks the typical, everyday middle. The poles map variation across the range — neither end is inherently better or worse.
Emotional containment: low outward expression; emotions are hard to read even when present.
High outward expression; emotions are easily read by others.
Moderate expressiveness with the ability to regulate display by context.
Measure
Measuring Methods
• Self-report vs. observer ratings (“felt 7/10” vs. “seen 2/10”).
• Field observation: speed and amplitude of expressive onset.
Empirical Anchor
Notes
• Risks at MIN: relational misattunement; low emotional communication.
• Risks at MAX: conflict, inappropriate leakage.
Citation
Human Elements System. (2026). Emotional Expressiveness (HES Passport C043, v1.3.2). hestable.com. https://hestable.com/passport/C043
@misc{hes_C043, author = {{Human Elements System}}, title = {{Emotional Expressiveness}}, year = {2026}, note = {HES Passport C043, v1.3.2}, howpublished = {\url{https://hestable.com/passport/C043}} }