How do aggressive and submissive animal postures differ?

Aggressive and submissive postures in animals are often diametrically opposed, a relationship known as the principle of antithesis. These signals have evolved to help social animals manage conflicts and avoid the physical injury that can result from overt fighting.123

Aggressive Postures

Aggressive displays are designed to signal dominance, intent to attack, or the defense of resources. Common features include:34
* Upright Stance: Dominant animals often adopt an upright, imposing posture to appear larger.3
* Exaggerated Features: Aggression may involve baring teeth, horns, or claws, as well as staring forward.1
* Vocalizations: Low-frequency sounds are frequently used because they are associated with larger body size and are inherently more threatening.1
* Ritualized Movements: Animals may engage in displays like lip or nose wrinkling, or broadside threats that present the largest possible body profile to an opponent.1

Submissive Postures

Submissive displays serve to appease a dominant individual and prevent attack. These postures are typically the precise opposite of aggressive signals:21
* Flattened Body: Subordinates often flatten their bodies toward the ground, lowering their tail and keeping ears against the head to appear smaller and non-threatening.3
* Vulnerable Exposure: An animal may expose vulnerable areas, such as the throat, to signal a lack of hostile intent.2
* Averted Gaze: Avoiding direct eye contact is a common submissive signal.1
* Infantile Elements: Some species incorporate juvenile behaviors, such as begging or rolling over, to further appease the dominant member.2