While we have often discussed how universal emotional expressions are, emerging research is expanding this universality even beyond our own species! A recent 2017 study from the University of Helsinki sought to better understand how humans recognize emotions and facial expressions in dogs. The study found that, not only can humans effectively read canine expressions,…
Read MoreFacial Expressions are Key to First Impressions
By Dr. Kathleen Bogart, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Oregon State University Facial expressions are important parts of how we communicate and how we develop impressions of the people around us. In “The Expression of Emotion in Man and Animals,” Charles Darwin proposed that facial expressions evolved to quickly communicate emotional states important to social survival.…
Read MoreFacial Expressions of Emotion are Innate, Not Learned
A 2008 study conducted by Humintell Director Dr. David Matsumoto and Photographer Bob Willingham investigated whether or not facial expressions of emotion were innate or a product of cultural learning. The study, which was the first of its kind, studied congenitally blind (blind from birth) and sighted judo athletes at the 2004 Paralympic Games and…
Read MoreThe Seven Basic Emotions: Do You Know Them?
Over half a century of scientific research has documented that 7 universal facial expressions of emotion are expressed and recognized, all around the world, regardless of race, culture, nationality, religion, gender or any other demographic variable. They are: Anger, Contempt, Fear, Disgust, Happiness, Sadness and Surprise. But what exactly are the 7 basic emotions and where…
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