Notable Body Language Differences Between Liars And Truthtellers

Hey there, Steve here, and welcome to this week’s private eye post, where I will highlight some notable differences in body language between liars and truthtellers.

The body language cues below are used by both men and women alike. Also, it doesn’t matter whether they tell a small fib or a whopping lie.

They’ll still display these signs.

 

Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and may not apply to all situations — everyone is unique. For help with an individual situation, please contact us —the first call is free, and we may just be able to put your mind at rest!

 

#1 Gesture Timing

When someone is lying, their mind has to make up a plausible narration. If they’re recounting a past time, they have to create imaginary details and actions. If they’re telling you they’re too busy, they’re trying to create an imaginary excuse.

This takes some of their “brainpower”.

Now, many liars who usually talk with their arms and hands will simply clam up their body language when they lie.

But if they do make gestures, their timing is going to be different when they lie.

Usually, truthful people gesture slightly before they speak. Liars gesture after they start speaking.

It’s that small amount of brainpower being taken to manufacture the lie that causes the delay.

 

#2 Mismatching

Often called “incongruence” by body language experts, this is when someone says one thing but their body language signals something different.

The easiest way to think about it is most people shake their heads when they say no, and nod when they say yes.

You’d be surprised at how many people still nod or shake their head when they are lying or telling the truth — though usually, it’s a much more subtle action.

 

#3 Palm Defence

For some reason, people who lie will not show their palms. But when people tell the truth, they will often flash the palms of their hands during the time they’re speaking as part of their natural gestures.

Now this one gets a little more complicated. It won’t always mean they’re not telling the truth. They may flick between truth and lies as part of the story they’re weaving.

 

#4 Duper’s Delight

This is a really strange phenomenon that I think will surprise you. People who are lying and think they’re getting away with something will often smile at the time they’re lying.

Now, I’m talking about a big smile on a mother who is talking with a reporter about her murdered child.

 

Summary

Once you practice spotting these noticeable basics, it will make it very difficult for people to lie to you.

 

Follow us on Facebook for more information on signs of lying, and how to get help if you think you need to.

 

Until next week,

Steve.