What Are The Disadvantages And Advantages Of Facial Expressions?

According to most social psychologists, two thirds of all communication is nonverbal – that’s body language, eye contact and facial expressions.

From this, it’s safe to assume that facial expressions are pretty important. They do, however, have their disadvantages!

Advantages of Facial Expressions

• Can indicate sarcasm
• Good for communicating silently
• Can indicate hostility or friendliness
• Can alter the meaning of what is said
• Good for flirting

Unfortunately, we can’t always control our facial expressions – I’m sure everybody has smirked when they shouldn’t or raised an eyebrow without realizing!

Disadvantages of Facial Expressions

• Showing surprise or disgust when it’s not polite to do so
• Can offend people who misinterpret the expression – for example, mistaking a friendly grin for a sarcastic smile
• Can betray what you’re really thinking and make it obvious that you’re lying to be polite
• Can show nervousness and vulnerability

Whatever the advantages and disadvantages of facial expressions are, there’s no escaping them – they’re usually involuntary or automatic anyway!