How does your facial expression impact feelings of love or anxiety? What is Flat Affect and how does it impact your relationships? We will answer these questions in today’s podcast.
Mirror Neurons
When we feel an emotion, it is normal to show that emotion on our face. And, showing that emotion allows those around us to intuit, via Mirror Neurons, our mood. It also allows them to sense how we feel about them. This emotional exchange deepens relationships and increases intimacy. The face has many muscles and it is suggested there are 21 facial expressions. This mobility allows for many emotional experiences to be shared.
Flat Affect
However, some people do not show much expression on their faces. Or their face has a flat, or wooden look. This is what is called “Flat affect”. For many, early attachment deficits can be the originating cause of Flat affect. But whatever the cause, the impact on relationships is significant. If we cannot “read” someone’s face, we do not know for sure how they are feeling about us. Or, what they may want from the current encounter.
Facial Expression
Check out your face in a mirror as you feel an emotion. Do you show your emotions on your face? Tune in for, “If you are happy, tell your face!
For more information on Mirror Neurons go to Harvard’s Shawn Achor’s video on this topic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsG6OcCQ2eU
