Avoiding eye contact may signal low self-esteem or emotional unease: Report

GENEVA

People who struggle to maintain eye contact during conversations may be revealing far more about themselves than they realize such as hidden insecurities or fear of judgment, according to Psychologies, a website focusing on mental health and personal behavior.

The website reported this week that avoiding eye contact, often dismissed as a sign of shyness, can in fact point to deeper issues such as low self-confidence, emotional discomfort, or ingrained social habits.

Clinical psychologist Pascal Anger, quoted by Journal des Femmes and cited by Psychologies, said that looking someone in the eye can feel like exposing one's emotions and vulnerability.

"Shy people, for example, often avoid eye contact because they fear being judged or appearing inferior," he explained. "This attitude reflects a form of protection against feelings of inferiority or the fear of judgment."

Anger added that a person's upbringing can play a major role, as in some households, children are told not to look adults directly in the eyes as a sign of respect. Phrases such as "lower your gaze when I'm talking to you" can leave a lasting mark, shaping how they interact with others later in life.

According to Psychologies, a shifty gaze could also signal embarrassment or an attempt to hide something. In such cases, breaking eye contact may be used a way to avoid emotional exposure.

GENEVA

Clinical psychologist Pascal Anger, quoted by Journal des Femmes and cited by Psychologies, said that looking someone in the eye can feel like exposing one's emotions and vulnerability.

According to Psychologies, a shifty gaze could also signal embarrassment or an attempt to hide something. In such cases, breaking eye contact may be used a way to avoid emotional exposure.