Using Facial Expressions
August 9th, 2006 (Communication)
Did you know that our facial expressions are inborn, but are subtly influenced by our families and cultures? In addition, we humans are also relatively adept at controlling them. There are four reasons for us to do so:
1. Cultural Rules: Cultures dictate certain rules for facial expressions. For example, in our society, men are not supposed to show fear in public, and women should not show anger. Rules may vary. For instance, men are allowed to cry at funerals. But even funerals have a pecking order - at the memorial of a male boss who died suddenly, the female secretary should show less grief than the wife or she might suggest something improper about her relationship with him.
2. Personal Rules: Families may enforce idiosyncratic imperatives: “Never look angry,” “Overplay every emotion,” or “We’re one big happy family.”
3. Vocational Requirements: Actors, doctors, nurses, psychologists, lawyers, and politicians, among others, must manage their facial expressions to be successful at their jobs.
4. Needs of the Moment: Moment-to-moment requirements of particular situations that are not connected with your work may necessitate control of facial expressions. Consider, for example, staying cool while lying, or maintaining a poker face when you encounter your lover while you’re with your spouse.