A person with eye contact anxiety may avoid making eye contact when talking to someone.
If they do make eye contact, they may feel like they are being judged or scrutinized.
Eye contact anxiety can interfere with everyday social interactions.
By the same token, the ability to maintain good eye contact is an importantaspect of social interaction.
People who look others in the eye are perceived as friendly and welcoming.
However, many shy and socially anxious people have difficulty with this part of communication.
Why People Avoid Eye Contact
People have eye contact anxiety for many reasons.
In fact, it’s recommended that all adults under the age of 65 get routine screening for anxiety.
This is likely due, in part, to genetic wiring.
In addition, the review showed that socially anxious people tend to avoid maintaining eye contact.
Again, this is likely due to the fear of being judged.
This means that they may avoid eye contact because it can cause extreme discomfort and even pain.
The Power of Eye Contact
Making eye contact during conversation is an important social skill.
It can affect how you are perceived by others both in personal and professional relationships.
you’re free to and should also look away occasionally.
Staring too intensely can make people uncomfortable.
Look at that person as you finish your thought or sentence.
double-check that you eventually include everyone in the group.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Paterson K, ed.PLoS ONE.
2016;11(9):e0162291.
10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2016.12.011
Jefferson JW.Social anxiety disorder: More than just a little shyness.Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry.
