Eye Contact

„The eyes reflect the soul“ is a very popular saying. So it is no surprise that the way we look at other persons is another important aspect of nonverbal communication. Do we hold eye contact or do we avent our eyes when talking to somebody? There is a continuum from staring into the other person’s eyes to avoiding eye contact completely.

Some of these aspects can be individual, but most of them have a cultural background and are common in certain cultures or regions. And different attitudes referring to eye contact in communication can cause irritation and misunderstanding.

The frequency and intensity of eye contact varies in different cultures. In general, eye contact in communication is higher in Arabian, Latin American and South European cultures, whereas people in North America and North Europe usually exchange glances less frequently and less intensive.

Eye Contact in Different Countries

Arabian Countries
In Arabian countries eye contact during conversations is very important, especially in business conversations. The exchange of glances can be longer and more intensive than in European cultures, and many Arabians consider insufficient eye contact as impolite. This applies, however, only to persons of the same gender. The exchange of glances between men and women who are not married or related usually is regarded as indecorous and pushy.
Europe, North America and Australia
Also in Europe, North America and Australia eye contact is an important part of communication. Direct eye contact is presumed to be a sign of reliability, trustworthiness and self-confidence. Persons avoiding glances when talking, looking at the floor or out of the window,can be regarded as impolite, insecure or insincere. On the other hand, too frequent and/or too intense eye contact is unwanted, too. Most of the people from those countries feel uncomfortable when somebody continuously stares at them.
Asian Cultures
In contrast, most Asian cultures have a different attitude: Direct eye contact is mostly considered as awkward and impolite. Japanese and Chinese, for example, are used to very short eye contact with dialogue partners. Glances lasting longer than a few seconds – especially towards persons representing a higher status – are taken as disrespectful and can cause severe irritations. People in  South Asian cultures even interpret direct eye contact as disregard. Lacking glances between dialogue partners are considered as pleasant and positive.