Interesting Psychology Team
6 – One-Word Answers
It’s not uncommon to find yourself talking to someone who gives one-word answers. They could simply be distracted or shy, but it could also reveal discomfort. If you’re an exceptional conversationalist and ask thoughtful questions, it can be unsettling to receive one or two-word answers, and it could mean that you’re not the only one feeling unsettled.
There are lots of different things that you could have said that unintentionally made them feel uncomfortable. The most likely answer is that you touched on a topic that made them feel embarrassed, offended, or unknowledgeable. In these circumstances, it’s important to take a look at the big picture. It could be time to end the conversation and move on.
7 – Self-Soothing
Do you have any nervous habits like bouncing a leg, playing with your hair, or biting your nails?
It probably comes as no surprise that other people do, too. People perform these actions as a way to self-soothe, and if you’re making someone feel uncomfortable, you might notice them falling into nervous habits. Often, self-soothing habits occur subconsciously, and the person you’re talking to might not even recognize how they’re feeling. Keep an eye out for fidgety behavior like playing with an earring, rubbing their neck, or fiddling with clothing or other objects.
If you see someone acting this way, consider what you’re saying and how it may be affecting them. Is the topic offensive or anxiety-inducing? If you think it may be, try moving the conversation to something less conflicting.
8 – Red Ears
Do you blush when you feel embarrassed? Maybe you do, or perhaps you know someone who does. People often get red in the face when they feel nervous or uncomfortable. But sometimes, a nervous blush can be subtle and only affect the ears.
This happens because blood flows to the ears faster than it does to the face. So, if you see red ears, it’s a sure sign that someone is feeling uncomfortable.
9 – Backing Away
Stepping back or away is a common subconscious signal that you don’t want to be near something or someone. If someone moves away from you, it’s a sign that they’re uncomfortable. If they can’t move away, they might simply turn away or create a barrier by crossing their arms or legs.
These behaviors are a form of subconscious blocking that helps us protect ourselves. If you notice it, don’t be too worried. It could just mean that you stepped a little too far into somebody else’s personal space. Just take a step back and see if some space gives them comfort.
10 – Blocking
When people feel discomfort, they might also practice blocking with objects instead of their bodies. This blocking occurs most often with things that the person is holding like a backpack, purse, or book. Whatever they possess, they will use it as a shield to protect themselves if they don’t like your behavior.
Keep in mind that blocking is subconscious, and don’t take it as a personal affront. Instead, use it to observe the other person’s feelings and gauge how they feel about what you have to say. And while you can’t control someone else’s reactions, you can try your best to help them feel safe and comfortable.
The Main Takeaway
When it comes to determining how someone else feels, nonverbal cues are the next best thing to just asking. Sometimes, people feel uncomfortable because of their personal beliefs, experiences, or biases – and if you don’t already know their specific triggers, it’s nearly impossible to guess how they’ll react. If you notice that you’re the source of some level of discomfort, most of the time, all you need to do to make someone feel better is give them some space and an apology.
Keep in mind that other people’s emotions are not your responsibility, and making others feel comfortable isn’t always the best or the right thing to do – especially if they have a problem with your self-expression or authenticity.
Be mindful of how you influence other people’s emotions, but never at the expense of being true to yourself.
Can you remember the last time you made someone uncomfortable? How did you handle the situation? Share your thoughts and experiences below!
