Facial Expressions can Make Untrustworthy Faces Seem Trustworthy

Researchers at University of Glasgow revealed that faces that are seen as untrustworthy, dominant or unattractive due to their shape can be made look the opposite through facial expressions. The researchers developed a set of three-dimensional animated images of faces with the help of software that allowed them to program the movement one or more of 42 individual facial groups of muscles, thereby forming different facial expressions.

Around 12 volunteers were then shown a random set of facial expressions and asked them to rate according to their trustworthiness, dominance and attractiveness.

“Some people can be judged to be untrustworthy or domineering simply by how they look – a square jaw and large brow conveying dominance, for example it can have implications for things like mate selection and job opportunities. However, there are also basic facial movements that people identify with specific social traits and these movements can override the default impression people have of another person's face”, lead researcher Dr Daniel Gill said.

Source-Medindia