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2012 Brubaker Micro Expressions
2012 Brubaker Micro Expressions
When someone is lying, they will do one of three things. A) Show emotion when they have none, B) show no emotion (think of a poker face), or C) mask one emotion with another. Keep a close eye on the person you are speaking to, not just their eyes but also their entire face.
Expressions are universal; whether you are a politician or a model your emotions show up on you face.
Look at the muscles that surround the eye socket. The major muscle running from the cheekbone at an angle to the corner of the lips indicates an insincere smile. While the mouth smiles, the eyes show no emotion. In a genuine smile, the eyes will wrinkle and the rest of the face is involved.
This micro expression indicates contempt. But these ultra-brief facial movements, or micro-expressions, only lasting a fraction of a second, aren't easy to spot. Even professionals trained in lie detection can't always isolate them. And deliberate liars tend to add other expressions, like smiling, to disguise a lie.
Timing
If their facial expressions are not in sync with what they are saying. They might be hiding something or lying. For example, if the moment calls for a smile and the smile is delayed or the timing is off. A genuine smile will crest over their face like a wave.
Eye Contact
While most people may interpret darting, unfocused eyes as a classic sign of lying, it's vital to consider the context of the behavior. For example, experienced poker players are careful not to make too much of eye tells. People usually look to the left or right when thinking about an answer. Someone not making eye contact should arouse suspicion, but eye contact can be a tricky evaluation tool: Consider that a psychopath can look you in the eye and lie with ease. And in some cultures, it's considered inappropriate to maintain eye contact.
Body Language
Even though a high percentage of communication is thought to be non-verbal, no single part of the bodysuch as the eyes, shoulders or handsreveals the whole story when it comes to lying. People who are lying often become more still. Hand gestures that normally accompany talking may occur with less frequency or intensity, and there may be fewer arm and leg movements. The person becomes more focused on telling the lie, so they get quieter in their body. Their body also tells part of the story. Touching of the face or neck is a manipulator and rubbing hands is a soothing technique. When under pressure, the cartilage in a mans nose becomes engorged and itches. Watching someone answer a question yes but shake their head no is also a good indicator that they dont believe what theyre saying as well as a shoulder shrug. Folding arms is a protection technique and shows insecurity in what theyre saying.
Hunched shoulders
When a person lies, unless they are a professional liar, will subconsciously try and make themselves small and inconspicuous. As a result, they will often hunch their shoulders, which reinforce their desire to remain small. Watch out for this. Other body gestures include crossing their arms or overtly lean away from you while talking to you.