why is lack of eye contact often considered a token of low self-esteem?

Question

Cultural differences apart...

Answer 1

I think cultural differences are important here. In some cultures it is not polite to look people in the eyes in the same way it is required in western society.

But, as you say, aside from that, people communicate a lot through eye contact, including confidence levels, domination, emotions, etc. I think about how animals also use eye contact to communicate in the same way. It is very threatening to a prey animal to have a predator look them in the eye because it could mean they are next on the lunch menu. Also, animals defer to each other and to the dominant member of the pack by looking away, crouching, turning belly up. So maybe, at an instinctual level, when someone doesn't look you in the eye, cultural differences aside, it may be a way to say that this person doesn't feel assertive or confident and that may be because of low self esteem.

Answer 2

Lack of eye contact does not necessarily mean one is shifty, rude or a liar-----or lacks self confidence.

In some cultures it is considered rude and forward to look someone in the eye----you simply do not do it. Especially when talking to women! If you look a man's wife in the eye in some cultures it is considered "hitting on her" by American standards.

In a nutshell.....don't judge someone about their eye contact, or lack there of.

um...Unless you are loaning them money, then they had better look you squarely in the eye! LOL

Answer 3

culture differences apart...///

i used to be that way too--afraid to look at people in the eye---some people indeed have low selfesteem, because they aren't comfortable giving eye contacts.
since a lot of the times, eyes sell the heart out.

but i also know, this can be cured by practice. :)

i personally feel eye contact is very important in communicating with others. it shows sincerity, and its a lot more powerful than words or gestures in this regard.

Answer 4

It can be a lot of things. You have to look at it in context. If you ask a woman out and she won't meet your eyes when she answers that's one thing. It's different than when you talk to someone who is just distracted or thinking about something else. If you confront someone that you think just stole from you, thats a different reason too.

Answer 5

I'd pretty much have to say its because, it takes real bravery to look someone head on in the eyes, and show your honest feelings to someone and seeing their honest feelings back. Most ppl can't take rejection rather it is said out loud or just being shown through someone's eyes.

Answer 6

Lack of eye contact is mark of a shifty character.
It has nothing to do with self esteem.

Answer 7

I consider it just rude.