Photo by Veer
Not sure if your spouse is telling the truth? Newsflash: It's written all over his face! Expressions and body language are key to your BS detector, so look for these common physical tip-offs.
Covering the mouth while talking It’s as if they’re subconsciously holding back the untruths they’re spouting. It may be as blatant as completely concealing the mouth or as subtle as a single finger placed in front of the lips.
Touching the nose Scientists have found that lying can cause the tissue in the nose to swell, meaning that a quick stroke could be a sign of deceit (sorry, but that allergy season excuse just doesn't cut it).
Rubbing an eye When lying to someone, the instinct is to look away in shame. Since that’s a dead giveaway, many people do a fast wipe of the peepers instead.
Touching an ear You know that phrase, "See no evil, hear no evil?" Well, anything from a small rub of the back of the ear to an outright earlobe yank hint that there may be something more you need to be told.
Going for the neck Research has found lying can cause a tingling in the tissues of the neck, leading to scratching or pulling the collar. It signals that the speaker is feeling uncertain, so be concerned if you see it right after she says something like, "No, I didn't blow $200 on clothes last week."
Shaking the head no while saying yes If he says, “Yep, I’m getting home late because I have a big assignment to finish” while nodding his head, he’s working late. If he sends the mixed message of saying yes while shaking his head no, you may wanna ask if he took a spin by Spearmint Rhino (and we don't mean the zoo).
>>> 50 answers to your sexiest questions
>>> Check out our date night finder!
>>> See our toxic friends slideshow
Nestpert Jackie Black, Ph.D., relationship expert and educator
-- The Nest Editors
Jul 28, 2010
See More: Couple Issues , Love & Sex