We hear of "piercing eyes" and "laughing eyes", etc., but how do eyes actually show emotion?
They sparkle and widen and droop and dim . They tear up. They show interest.
They squint when doubtful.
http://eliothoppe.com/articles/20080703-eyes.html
Eyes are often considered a window into a person's emotions because they play a crucial role in non-verbal communication. The expression in the eyes is influenced by several factors, including the movement of muscles, the contraction and dilation of the pupils, and the overall facial expression. To understand how eyes show emotion, we need to examine these components:
1. Muscle movements: The muscles around the eyes, known as the orbicularis oculi, are responsible for various expressions. For example, when someone is happy or laughing, their eyes tend to crinkle at the corners due to the contraction of these muscles. Conversely, when someone is sad or angry, their eyes may appear narrower or strained due to different muscle movements.
2. Pupil dilation: The size of the pupils can indicate different emotions. When a person is interested or attracted to something or someone, their pupils tend to naturally dilate. Conversely, when someone is feeling stressed or afraid, their pupils may contract or become smaller.
3. Eye contact: The act of making eye contact, or avoiding eye contact, can also convey emotions. When we are happy, confident, or interested, we tend to make direct eye contact with others. On the other hand, discomfort, guilt, or nervousness may lead a person to avoid eye contact.
It is important to note that reading emotions through eyes is not an exact science, as individuals may express emotions differently. Cultural and personal differences can also influence how emotions are displayed. Therefore, it is crucial to consider a person's overall facial expression, body language, and context to accurately perceive their emotions.