THE MIND’S CANVAS 197wrinkled brow likely has had a challenging life in which he engaged in
frequent frowning.
Nasal Wing Dilation (Nose Flare)As discussed previously, the flaring of nostrils is a facial cue that signals
that a person is aroused. Lovers can often be seen hovering around each
other, their nostrils subtly flaring in excitement and anticipation. Most
likely, lovers engage in this subconscious behavior as they absorb each
other’s scents of sexual attraction known as pheromones (Givens, 2005,
191–208). Nose flaring is also an intention cue, a potent indicator of the
intent to do something physical, and not necessarily sexual. It can be any-
thing from getting ready to climb some steep stairs to preparing to move
a bookcase. As people prepare to act physically, they will oxygenate,
which causes the nostrils to flare.
As a law enforcement officer, if I encounter a person on the street
looking down, his feet in the ready or “pugilistic position,” with his nose
flaring, I suspect that he is probably preparing to do one of three things:
argue, run, or fight. Nasal wing dilation is something you should always
be watching for if you are around someone who might have reason either
to attack or run away from you. It is just one of many suspicious behav-
iors we should teach our children to watch for. That way they will be
more aware when people are becoming dangerous, especially at school
or on playgrounds.
Nail-Biting and Related Signs of StressIf you see a person biting his nails while waiting to close a deal, he
probably does not impress you as being very confident. Nail-biting is an
indication of stress, insecurity, or discomfort. When you see it in a bar-
gaining session, even if just for a moment, it is safe to assume that the
nail-biter is unsure of himself and/or is bargaining from a position of
weakness. People interviewing for jobs or young men waiting for their
dates to arrive should avoid biting their nails, not only because it looks