How would you describe a mawkish demeanor?

A mawkish demeanor is characterized by an overwhelming sentimentality that can come off as excessive or insincere. This type of emotional expression often appears overly sentimental or cloying, which can make it seem insincere or contrived. Those exhibiting a mawkish demeanor may express feelings in a manner that feels exaggerated or lacking in genuine depth, as if they are trying too hard to elicit emotion from others.

This description aligns closely with the first choice, capturing the essence of mawkishness as something that is not just emotional but becomes excessive or artificial. Understanding this helps to identify how mawkishness differs from more authentic emotional expressions, which may be more subdued, genuine, or balanced.