Micro-expressions, which are brief and involuntary facial expressions resulting from certain emotions, are universal and difficult to hide. They depict one of the seven basic universal emotions: Disgust, anger, fear, sadness, happiness, surprise, and contempt (John). Psychologists Haggard and Isaacs first discovered these “micro-momentary” facial expressions in 1966 while analyzing non-verbal communication between psychologists and patients. Subsequently, Ekman and Friesen included micro-expressions in their studies in 1969, later incorporating their findings into the book “Telling Lies” (1985) (Humantill). However, it wasn’t until 2008 that Porter and ten Brinke published a scientific article officially recognizing the existence of micro-expressions (Humantill).
Micro-expressions, which are controlled by the frontalis, corregator, and risorius muscles in the face, have a duration of approximately 1/25 to 1/15 of a second (ScienceDaily). Detecting these movements is extremely difficult as they are nearly impossible to control. Paul Ekman, a renowned Psychologist, is recognized for his research on micro-expressions (Humantill). Occasionally, these fleeting moments that reveal a person’s genuine emotions can be captured on camera when the subject is being authentic and experiencing happiness during the shot.
When a subject is told to smile or appear happy, it is impossible for them to generate a completely genuine facial expression without any micro-expressions. However, when the subject feels comfortable and welcomed in their surroundings, they are able to display an authentic expression with these micro-expressions. This results in a depiction of the subject expressing their true underlying emotions through a natural expression (John). Is this desirable? It is debatable. It could potentially instill fear or a sense of vulnerability in the subject, as they become aware that their genuine emotions are being captured for more than just their own observation.
This situation has the potential to make the subject uncomfortable or encourage them to be more authentic and open. By asking personal questions, the capturer can delve into the person’s life and bring out their micro-expressions. The mood of the photo shoot can be altered simply by asking basic questions, triggering a response. If the subject tries to act normal and hide the truth, their micro-expressions will give them away, allowing the photographer to detect their lies. Mark Frank, a communications professor, has developed systems to identify and accurately interpret unconscious behavioral cues that indicate deception. His research is utilized by investigation services worldwide, helping security checkpoint personnel recognize and interpret subtle conversational cues and fleeting flashes of expression that reveal suppressed emotions or suggest further inquiry. Frank’s work builds upon Darwin’s understanding of the evolutionary basis of emotions and how they are expressed. Understanding facial expressions is essential in preventing terrorism and crime.Police officers, judges, and FBI agents can employ various methods to detect distrust and deceit, including analyzing facial expressions such as frowns, wrinkles, raised eyebrows, and smirks. These professionals use the practice of identifying micro-expressions to determine if a criminal or terrorist is being dishonest or attempting to conceal information.
Unless they have extensive training, this test would be challenging to pass. In court, Mark Frank has been hired by judges to assist in distinguishing liars from honest suspects (ScienceDaily). When observing a person’s face, one notices the obvious features such as eyes, smile, nose, and general expression, along with occasional micro-expressions. However, when examining a liar’s face, one can discern more than just these surface characteristics. In certain instances, individuals may show signs of suppressing information and attempting to conceal their secrets.
The unusual appearance and numerous micro-expressions displayed by individuals when concealing their true emotions can be observed. Micro-expressions can signal that something is not right in a particular circumstance, such as during an interrogation. If a suspect visibly exhibits micro-expressions on their face while holding back information, it indicates that they are hiding something or that there is something wrong. Consequently, this could lead to the discovery that someone is compelled to conceal facts (Maureen, 2009). The ability to detect micro-expressions can be developed through practice by closely observing individuals while asking questions or engaging in general conversation.
To accurately read a person’s expressions, it is important to observe the small details, such as the absence of eye wrinkles while smiling. A genuine smile should engage the entire face without appearing overly forced. An excess display of teeth, wrinkles, or an overpowering sense of happiness may indicate something is amiss. Someone might intentionally create such an expression to divert attention from a partial smile. If a person is smiling while their face portrays sadness, it is likely they are concealing their emotions and something is troubling them.
Micro-expressions are utilized by individuals in their everyday lives, even if they are not consciously aware of them. These small facial gestures can reveal if something is amiss and are valuable tools in investigations and courtrooms worldwide for preventing crime. Furthermore, understanding micro-expressions can be personally beneficial as it allows us to support our friends by recognizing when something is bothering them beneath their cheerful exterior. By becoming familiar with micro-expressions, communication becomes easier, enabling us to better understand the emotions underlying people’s expressions.
