Is it possible to read facial expressions to tell when
someone isn't being truthful?
We find it much more difficult to control our facial
expressions than our choice of words.
In fact, researchers have proven conclusively that their
are certain muscles in our face that are very
difficult to control and these are the muscles that are the
most reliable in lie detection.
These facial expressions are triggered by emotion and are
involuntary.
Some that have mastered the ability to interpret these
involuntary muscle movements are achieving an amazing
90% accuracy.
Here are 3 revealing facial clues to watch for that
identify deceit or lies;
1. Timing
If their facial expressions are not in synch 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.
2. Emotion and facial expressions
When someone is lying, they will do one of three things.
- Show emotion when they have none
- Show no emotion (poker face)
- Mask one emotion with another
3. Eyes and upper half vs. lower half
The upper half of a persons face is a much more reliable
measure than the lower half. It generates more involuntary
clues and is extremely difficult for someone to control.
Using smiling as an example, the most revealing clue if a
smile is genuine or manufactured is in the eyes.
Look at the
muscles that surround the eye socket. The
Zygomaticus major muscle running
from the cheekbone at an angle to the corner of the lips
indicates a sincere smile
Although these are strong signs, you should always
look for other body language & voice tone signals.
There is no substitute for
knowledge. Knowing how to
interpret lying signals and how to
apply the
right techniques to confirm your suspicions will amplify
your success dramatically