Facial Expressions: Micro Expressions
Where Truth Hides in Plain Sight
Did you know that the human face can produce over 10,000 different expressions?
These expressions are created by various facial muscles, including those around the mouth, lips, eyes, nose, forehead, and jaw.​
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While nonverbal communication can vary significantly across cultures, there are seven universally recognized facial expressions of emotion:
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Joy
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Sadness
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Surprise
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Fear
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Anger
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Contempt
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Disgust
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Regardless of race, age, gender, or even factors like congenital blindness, all people express these seven emotions in remarkably similar ways.
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To gain a comprehensive understanding of each case we encounter, our experts employ various methods, one of which involves reading facial micro expressions.
Micro Expressions: Anger Example
Micro Expressions
Micro expressions are brief, involuntary facial expressions that occur within a fraction of a second, typically lasting only 1/25th of a second to 1/5th of a second. These fleeting expressions reveal a person's true emotions, often betraying feelings that they may consciously try to conceal.
Unlike macro expressions, which can last from 0.5 to 4 seconds and are more easily recognized and controlled, micro expressions are universally consistent across cultures. They provide a powerful tool for understanding human behaviour and emotions, as they often reflect genuine feelings that individuals might not express verbally.
Professionals trained to recognise micro expressions can detect deception, improve communication, and navigate social dynamics more effectively. These subtle cues can reveal hidden emotions, allowing for deeper insights into a person's true state of mind.
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In the realm of nonverbal communication, micro expressions play a crucial role in offering valuable insights into individuals' authentic feelings and reactions, making them essential for anyone looking to enhance their interpersonal skills.