Our list of microexpression misconceptions continued…read on to find out what is myth vs reality when it comes to micros.
5) Only psychologists study and use microexpressions
While it is true that many studies regarding microexpressions have been conducted by psychologists, the knowledge of microexpressions can be used in a wide variety of professions. In general, anyone who engages in face to face interaction with other people can benefit from microexpression training. Law enforcement agents, teachers, lawyers, doctors and sport coaches are just a few professions that can use this knowledge to work smarter, relate better and know what others are really feeling.
6) Microexpressions are culturally dependent
It has been proven by many empirical studies published in scientific, peer reviewed journals that the seven basic emotions of happiness, contempt, sadness, fear, surprise, anger and disgust are universal and not culturally specific. Similarly, microexpressions are not culturally dependent. Everyone gives off microexpressions, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity and they cannot be faked. Don’t forget that people usually illicit these emotions in high stakes situations– when they have something to lose or gain or when they are under great amounts of stress or anxiety.
7) Microexpressions are the key to detecting deception
According to studies, 65-95% of most messages are communicated nonverbally. Of this 65-95%, most leakage occurs in the face. Microexpressions are only one type of nonverbal communication and can be helpful in catching liars. However, a recent empirical study conducted by Warren et al and published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior suggests that subtle expressions, not microexpressions, were positively correlated with lie detection.
This research suggests that subtle expression training is perhaps the next step in learning how to spot liars. How do you learn subtle expressions?
Humintell plans to launch SubX, their subtle expression recognition training by the end of this month. This training is one of a kind and is the same training used by governmental agencies within the country. If you wish to be notified when SubX launches, you can subscribe to learn on our website.
Am into Interview training. It is a useful information on misconceptions about micro expressions. Training on reading micro expressions can be specially beneficial to Interviewers!
This kind of study is applicable to corporate training, especially when the personnel go to developing countries where risks of terrorism are higher. I’d like to keep studying more about what you are pursuing. Thank you.