A big part of this is that so much of how we convey feelings of attraction isnon-verbal.
Do you want to go out on Friday night?
(although it’s helpful when they do!)
Verywell Mind / Getty Images
But no, most of us have to learn how to read much more subtleand often totally non-verbalromantic cues.
First, it can be helpful to observe how they are acting as they talk to you.
This focused gaze indicates genuine interest.
Then, of course, you might take note of the kinds of things that they say to you.
This shows that the person wants to connect with you on a more intimate level.
Finally, it can be helpful to notice the types of phrases that the person is using.
Non-Verbal Body Language Signs
Okay, so lets get down to those all-important non-verbal cues.
Heres what the experts we interviewed had to say about the ways that non-verbal body language can be expressed.
Touching and Physical Contact
Certain types oftouchand contact can indicate that someone is interested in you.
Physical proximity is also a clue, says Dr. Tarlow.
you might also look at how a persons own physicalbody languagechanges.
Mirroring behaviors can suggest a strong connection and often occur before a verbal exchange, Tse adds.
Synchronization is a key behavior to be aware of, Tse emphasizes.
For instance, a fleeting smile can indicate comfort or interest, Tse notes.
Their body may lean in slightly, suggesting they want to be closer without crossing personal boundaries.
One example is the phenomenon of eye contact.
The bottom line is that when it comes to non-verbal body language, context is everything.
But itdoeshappenmore frequently than you might realize.
Its pretty common for misinterpretation of nonverbal cues, says Dr. Tarlow.
Someone may appear attracted to you when they’re simply just being friendly or have a naturally flirty personality.
Dr. Tarlow shared the example of a client she worked with.
She thought her coworker was interested in her because she frequently touched her shoulder while they chatted.
But after watching him more, she realized he did this with everyone, Dr. Tarlow said.
It was just how he communicated.
Again, context is vitally important.
So is keeping in mind that everyone has a unique personality and communication style.
One of the most bewildering aspects is trying to figure out if someone is interested in you or not.
That said, its easy to misinterpret body language, or not understand the context which its coming from.
Thats why its important not to overstep or assume anything right away.
Abdulghafor R, Turaev S, Ali MAH.Body Language Analysis in Healthcare: An Overview.Healthcare (Basel).
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doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0118094
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.Communication Styles.
Hall JA, Gunnery SD.Gender differences in nonverbal communication.
In: Hall JA, Knapp ML, eds.Nonverbal Communication.
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