Smiling: A Subtle Expression of Human Emotion
The Complexity of Smiling
Smiling is primarily a mechanism controlled by the brain. According to scientists, this reflex begins with a stimulus in the anterior part of the hypothalamus. This is a higher-level nerve center that governs all activities of our body’s autonomic nervous system. From there, this stimulus spreads like a wave and transmits a nerve signal to the limbic system, the brain’s emotional center. Subsequently, signals are emitted: muscle tension relaxes, and expressions of satisfaction appear on the face. Conversely, a stimulus in the posterior part of the hypothalamus leads to dissatisfied reactions.
Additionally, for a person to achieve even the simplest smile, at least 15 muscle groups must work in unison. These 15 muscle groups are needed just to initiate a “slight movement of the eyes and lips,” according to the simple definitions found in dictionaries. However, each type of smile is associated with different muscle groups, creating the unique characteristics of each smile. When we smile politely, it is merely a simple “gesture” of the lips and the contraction of the zygomaticus major muscle. Meanwhile, a broad smile when we are very happy engages the muscles of the eyelids. This muscle group is automatically activated when we experience pleasant sensations. Therefore, it is impossible to confuse an awkward smile with a happy one.
So, in our daily interactions, how many times do we smile? It is hard to quantify, as this depends on individual personality and circumstances. At that moment, a smile helps express the emotional states we are experiencing. In reality, we do not only smile out of satisfaction but also for many complex psychological and emotional reasons. Furthermore, a question arises: When do humans learn to smile? At birth? Not quite. In infants, smiles appear around one month old, or at the latest, by three months. Babies smile when they see a familiar face, hear a pleasant sound, and especially after being fed. Later, through learning, each individual develops different smiles that convey various meanings. Psychologist Paul Ekman has identified 19 different types of smiles, including those reflecting fear, contempt, sarcastic smiles, and forced smiles.
In summary, smiling is a form of communication distinct from spoken language, a means for us to express what we “do not say verbally.” A smile opens up vast realms of communication. Below, we decode six fundamental types of smiles.
Welcoming Smile – The “Marketing” Smile
A welcoming smile, or polite smile, has both an inviting and distancing quality. When we encounter this smile, we naturally feel joy and trust, even when the person we are speaking to is not a close friend. Alexandra, 36, recalls: “I always remember the smile of the bread seller at the shop when I occasionally stop by for a loaf. That smile always makes me happy and want to return.” This smile does not require us to know who we are but strikes a chord with the general emotions within us. “A sincere smile awakens in us a very sensitive innate reflex, guiding us toward goodness,” emphasized His Holiness the Dalai Lama in his book *Ancient Wisdom and the Modern World*.
Agreeable Smile – The “Attraction” Smile
An agreeable smile indicates that the individual shares a common issue or circumstance with us. This smile expresses consensus with certain individuals we choose. Taiwanese photographer Steven, 25, explains: “I always love to capture the peak moments of shared glances and agreeable smiles, even when they are expressions from people I happen to see on the street.” The smiles Steven has collected are the most memorable moments from his photo-hunting trips.
Charming Smile – The “Flirtation” Smile
German ethologist Irenaus Eibl-Eibesfeldt has proven that smiles are present in most of humanity’s ways of attraction around the world. In France, women value a man with a cheerful smile (37%) more than the allure of his eyes (13%). This smile is both reassuring and protective. Claire, a 38-year-old image research specialist who is engaged, shares: “Sometimes, when he doesn’t know what to do to please me, he gives me a gentle yet mischievous smile. I immediately feel charmed and completely trust him.”
Defensive Smile – The “Self-Defense” Smile
When we unexpectedly face someone unfamiliar, the first weapon we use is a smile. This “trump card” is deployed to neutralize the other party, diffusing any potential aggressive impulses they may have when we look at them. This is viewed as a gesture of peace shared across all civilizations. Emmanuelle, 25, admits: “When I enter a room where I don’t know anyone, I instinctively smile to calm myself.”
Bold Smile – The “Confidence-Building” Smile
Learning how to smile in a way that maintains our positive attitudes and appearance is a crucial step toward achieving success in life. Cardiologist Elisabeth, 48, reveals: “I always have to practice smiling and speaking in front of crowds. It gives me more confidence.” Such a smile helps us maintain better control over ourselves when stressed and allows us to face life’s changes with more peace and tranquility. Ludovic, 27, states: “Once, I was unsure how to ask my boss for a month off without pay. In the end, I decided to approach him first with a smile. And everything went smoothly.” Such a smile has helped create another smile in return…
Forced Smile – The “Punishment” Smile
A forced smile does not only indicate satisfaction; it can also appear when we have just committed a clumsy act or when we feel shy, embarrassed, or display a sense of disorder. Psychotherapy expert Catherine Aimelet-Perissol explains: “A forced smile indicates that we want to suppress our emotions rather than endure them.” Therefore, while smiling seeks to find strength in relationships, it also conveys our more vulnerable feelings.
