How to Tell if Someone is Lying in Body Language

Many people can lie easily and convincingly, but with the exception of practiced criminals, most people can't control tell-tale signs of deception in their body language. Besides the obvious clues, like anxiety, panic and shifty eyes, there are some subtle signs to look for to tell if someone is lying to you.

Instructions

1. Watch for sudden movements that indicate deception. A person may touch his face, cross his arms across his body or quickly cross his legs when telling a lie.

2. Look for signs of anxiety and tension. You may see twitching, fidgeting and sweating. Most people have their own anxiety signals that are learned at a young age and hard to stop.

3. Detect whether the person seems to be trying too hard to stay in control. Forced smiles, trying to keep still or veering back and forth between an open posture and a closed one are some signs to watch.

4. Observe whether the person seems distracted or not when listening to you. A person focused on his own self control will find it hard to concentrate on what is going on around him.

5. Notice how the person faces you and looks at you. Someone who is lying may turn away from you. She also may be unable to make eye contact and will instead glance around the room.

Tips & Warnings

• Some body language isn't an absolute indicator that someone is lying. The person may just be nervous, anxious or lack self-esteem.