What does it mean when someone doesn't look you in the eye when you talk to them, according to science?

When someone avoids eye contact during a conversation , it's often interpreted as shyness, insecurity, or disinterest, but science reveals much deeper explanations. According to various psychological and neuroscience studies, eye contact is a powerful signal of attention, empathy, and emotional connection, while avoiding eye contact can be related to cognitive, emotional, or even cultural processes. What did science explain in detail about this?

Eye contact activates brain regions associated with social recognition and empathy. When it's avoided, it may be due to anxiety, a need for concentration, cultural respect, or neurodivergent conditions , such as autism spectrum disorder, according to the American Psychological Association.

Meanwhile, averting eye contact can be a way to relieve cognitive load. A study from the University of Stirling concluded that people tend to avert their gaze when processing complex information, as eye contact consumes valuable mental resources.

It can also be a sign of social anxiety or low self-esteem. The aforementioned association notes that those who avoid eye contact often fear being judged, misunderstood, or simply feel vulnerable in face-to-face interactions.

Below are recommendations to improve eye contact:

1. Alternate your gaze between the eyes and other points on the face to avoid discomfort.

2. Take into account the cultural context when interpreting or applying eye contact.

3. Practice informal conversations to gain confidence.

4. Observe each other's reactions, since comfort is mutual.

5. Effective communication includes not only speaking, but also knowing how to read the other person's nonverbal language, especially their gaze.

(READ: 'It's healthier': Experts recommend replacing meat with this food urgently)

The weight of culture: not all countries see things the same way

Look away

iStock

In many cultures, not making eye contact is not a sign of disinterest, but of respect . In Asian, African, and Indigenous Latin American countries, prolonged eye contact can be interpreted as a lack of politeness or a defiant gesture. The University of Minnesota warns that sustained eye contact in formal settings can violate deeply held social norms. Therefore, interpreting this gesture depends on the cultural context in which it occurs.

(READ: The Colombian town near Bogotá that's perfect for living, according to AI)

Averting Eyes: The Impact on Personal and Work Relationships

Lack of eye contact can affect how a person is perceived, making them appear evasive, distant, or untrustworthy. However, this perception can be unfair if the emotional or cultural context is not considered.

In work environments, appropriate eye contact improves the perception of leadership, security, and credibility , while avoiding it excessively can be interpreted as a lack of commitment or insecurity.