198 W H A T EVERY BODY IS SAYING
unsightly, but also because nail-biting shouts, “I am insecure.” We bite
our nails not because they need trimming primarily, but rather because
it pacifies us.
Facial Blushing and BlanchingSometimes we will involuntarily blush or blanch based on deep emo-
tional states. To demonstrate blushing behavior in my classes, I will
make a student stand in front of the group and then I will come up be-
hind and get very close to the back of his or her neck. Usually this viola-
tion of the person’s space will be enough to cause a limbic reaction,
making the face blush. On some people, especially fair-skinned individu-
als, this can be very noticeable. People will also blush when they are
caught doing something they know is wrong. Then there is the blushing
that occurs when a person likes someone but doesn’t want him or her to
know it. Teenagers who harbor a secret crush on someone will often
blush when that particular person draws near. This is a true limbic re-
sponse that is transmitted by the body and is relatively easy to spot.
Conversely, blanching (turning pale) can take place when we are in
the sustained limbic reaction known as shock. I have seen blanching as a
result of a traffic accident or in an interview in which person was sud-
denly presented with overwhelming evidence of his guilt. Blanching
takes place as the involuntary nervous system hijacks all the surface ves-
sels and channels the blood to our larger muscles to prepare for escape or
attack. I know of at least one case where an individual was so surprised
to be arrested that he suddenly blanched and had a fatal heart attack.
Although these behaviors are only skin deep, we should not ignore them,
as they are indicative of high stress and will present differently according
to the nature and the duration of the circumstances.
Disapproval Cues through Facial ExpressionsDisapproval cues vary around the world and reflect a specific culture’s
social norms. In Russia, I have had people look at me with scorn because