Understanding Facial Expressions and Emotions

The video explores the universality of facial expressions, suggesting that basic expressions like anger, fear, and happiness are innate and evolved for survival. Darwin's theory of universality is supported by Paul Ekman's cross-cultural studies, which show that even isolated cultures use similar expressions. The Facial Action Coding System (FACS) is introduced as a tool for objectively measuring expressions. The video also discusses how expressions may have evolved to control sensory input, enhancing survival. While many expressions are innate, social situations often require learned control of facial expressions.

What is the primary way humans communicate emotions without words?

• Through body posture

• Using facial expressions

• By writing

• Through gestures

According to Darwin, why are basic facial expressions considered universal?

• They are taught in schools

• They are inherited from ancestors

• They are influenced by media

• They are unique to each culture

What did Paul Ekman discover about isolated cultures and facial expressions?

• They rely on verbal communication

• They do not use facial expressions

• They use the same basic expressions as other cultures

• They have unique expressions

What is the Facial Action Coding System (FACS) used for?

• To teach facial expressions

• To measure muscle activity in facial expressions

• To create new expressions

• To eliminate expressions

How do facial expressions help us react to our environment?

• By influencing our actions

• By altering our thoughts

• By controlling sensory input

• By changing our mood

What happens to your eyes when you express fear?

• They narrow

• They widen

• They close

• They blink rapidly

Why might disgusted expressions reduce airflow through the nose?

• To enhance focus

• To improve breathing

• To avoid smelling unpleasant odors

• To increase oxygen intake

What does the study of facial expressions suggest about emotions and perception?

• Perception is unaffected by facial expressions

• Perception is solely based on logic

• Emotions can shape how we perceive reality

• Emotions have no effect on perception

What is a learned component of facial expressions?

• The ability to express surprise

• The ability to express happiness

• The ability to mask emotions in social situations

• The ability to express sadness

Why might someone nod during a conversation even if they disagree?

• To show agreement

• To mask their true emotions

• To express confusion

• To indicate boredom