Botox and Lie Detection
A recent study on Botox reminds us of a special twist on microexpressions and lying: when we can’t feel an emotion, we may have trouble sensing it in others. New research suggests that those whose botox prevents them from frowning are less able to see sadness in others.
Does this matter to those of us who use Paul Ekman’s work with microexpressions for lie detection [link to lie detection for lawyers] and emotional skills? Somewhat and yes! For lie detection, any unexpected emotion, particularly from microexpressions, may be a clue to deception. But earlier research suggested emotions of fear (probably of getting caught) and disgust (probably from guilt or shame) were most likely. On the other hand, in my negotiation teaching, and based on research, negative emotions like sadness can be key. From that research, any negative emotion may make us less able to negotiate effectively.
Thanks! That’s very funny. No, I wrote this myself – thanks to my high school journalism teacher and my editors at the Harvard Crimson. :0