Psychologist explains why Donald Trump does 'trademark move' after world leader 'outplays' him at it

A psychologist has explained the significance behind Donald Trump's handshake.

The US President is known for a number of things and decisions that he's made over his two terms in office.

Whether it be the controversial tariffs that he placed against China and other nations, the breakdown of his relationship with billionaire Elon Musk, or even his constant, scary reminders of the threat of a Third World War, Trump has never been shy to make headlines.

But a moment between Trump and the chancellor of Germany has made headlines as it is one of the rare times where it looks like the President was 'outplayed'.

The clip of their encounter made headlines earlier this week, with the 78-year-old Republican seemingly being beaten at his own game - in a sense.

What is Trump's 'trademark move'?

As the President of the United States, Trump regularly meets a lot of powerful people, whether it be to discuss relations, wars, or trade deals, he usually meets fellow politicians in front of the press.

The former Apprentice star makes sure to assert his 'dominance' here, by pulling in the hand of the person that he meets.

Trump has been seen pulling many world leaders towards him mid-handshake.

But this did not fly when it came to his meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who apparently 'outplayed' the 78-year-old.

🤝Merz wasn’t just waiting — he was preparing for this meeting! Outplayed and destroyed Trump’s dominant handshake. pic.twitter.com/jIz6SbhTzX

— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) June 10, 2025

How was Trump 'outplayed'?

Trump met with Chancellor Merz at the White House last week to speak about Ukraine, trade, and the military.

But for once, this wasn't the talking point on social media.

It was to do with the 69-year-old Merz seemingly playing the Uno reverse card, and having a back-and-forth tussle with Trump when the pair shook hands.

The video went viral, as the German stood firm when Trump tried to pull him in, even pulling the US leader towards him.

Many people took to online platforms to praise the German, who countered Trump's 'signature move' for what many think to be the first time.

However, experts have now dissected the handshake.

Psychologist's explanation on why Trump does it

Dr Claudia Diez is a professor of psychology in New York, and she claimed that Trump does the handshake to display control and power of the other person.

Speaking to MailOnline, she explains: "The predator signals he is in control by determining distance of the arm (bring in, push forward) and length of the shake, which the pray cannot consent nor exert control off."

Dr Diez specifically analysed Trump's interaction with French President Emmanuel Macron, as the latter tried to pull away from the handshake before giving up control.

She compares him to being the 'prey', despite looking jovial and unaffected by the move.

Another body language expert, Tonya Reiman, has coined the technique as the 'Trump Pump', in an effort to 'take an individual off guard'.

Reiman also advised readjusting your palm, stepping slightly to the left, or even matching his grip if anyone were to come across Trump.

She added that 'bracing your elbows' near your body could help you stay physically on top.

Take note, world leaders.