October 7, 2008

UAB Scholar-in-Residence James McCroskey, Ed.D., says viewers of tonight's presidential debate should expect the discussion between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain to be more heated this time than in the first debate.

"Non-verbally, I expect them to be less friendly tonight," says McCroskey. "They likely will attack each other for their past associates. Also, look for the voice characteristics of the candidates to change. In the last debate they were somewhat kind to one another, but tonight I expect them to be much rougher toward each other. We can expect meaner shots this time."

James McCroskey, Ed.D., teaches in the UAB Department of Communication Studies. His research and teaching interests include persuasion and public communication, nonverbal communication, communication apprehension, shyness and communication competence. He has published more than 30 books and revisions.

McCroskey will be available today until 5 p.m.