Good news!
“According to some researchers, a genuine smile reflects the inner state of cheerfulness or amusement.
“However, Behavioural Ecology Theory suggests that all smiles are tools used in social interactions; that theory claims that cheerfulness is neither necessary nor sufficient for smiling.”
After analysing the data, the researchers concluded that the mood that seemed to be associated with smiling most often was, simply, “engagement.” This suggests that smiles might sometimes appear as an unconscious social reaction.
“During these computerized quizzes,” explains Dr. Witchel, “smiling was radically enhanced just after answering questions incorrectly.”
Good news!
“According to some researchers, a genuine smile reflects the inner state of cheerfulness or amusement.
“However, Behavioural Ecology Theory suggests that all smiles are tools used in social interactions; that theory claims that cheerfulness is neither necessary nor sufficient for smiling.”
After analysing the data, the researchers concluded that the mood that seemed to be associated with smiling most often was, simply, “engagement.” This suggests that smiles might sometimes appear as an unconscious social reaction.
“During these computerized quizzes,” explains Dr. Witchel, “smiling was radically enhanced just after answering questions incorrectly.”