Research shows facial expressions are central to how we communicate

Holler’s study investigates how facial expressions contribute to what are known as “speech acts” - things we do with words like requesting, apologizing, or thanking. Her findings reveal that facial cues are not just emotional add-ons; they play a direct role in signaling our intentions during conversations.

Eyebrow raise

In face-to-face interactions, facial expressions can help listeners interpret what’s being said faster and more accurately. For example, a slight eyebrow raise or a tilt of the head might clarify whether a question is genuine curiosity or a challenge. This supports the idea that communication is “multimodal”: it involves multiple forms of expression beyond just spoken language.

Holler proposes expanding our view of communication to include “social actions,” a broader framework that incorporates both verbal and non-verbal behaviors. This shift could help researchers better understand how humans interact, especially in contexts where facial cues are limited, like in text-based communication or among individuals with certain neurological conditions.

Application

As digital communication becomes more dominant, recognizing the importance of facial expressions could also shape how we design virtual platforms, train AI systems, or approach social interaction in remote settings.

You can read the full publication here: https://www.mpi.nl/publications/item_3650608