Hurrah – scientists have revealed that ladies with Resting Bitch Face are actually better communicators that the ‘norms’ and their sunny faces. FYI – we’re smiling about this right now, but you can’t see it, as our face naturally falls into a frown.
Studies have shown that we look for non-verbal cues to help us to work out what the person we’re chatting with wants to say, and those that have a more naturally neutral face are better at picking up these hints.
Writer Rene Paulson has spoken out about the benefits of looking like the human version of the mean-looking, eyebrows furrowed emoji.
She says: “Women confronted by a world that automatically attaches negative attributes to their non-smiling face must quickly learn how to communicate and also hone a finely-tuned awareness of both our own emotions and the emotions of those around us.”
Which essentially means that we have to work harder to make sure people don’t assume we’re a bitch. But all this extra emotive work does have its rewards – namely, that we ultimately become better at reading people and communicate our points more effectively.
Rene adds: “We must also quickly develop a strong sense of self-awareness. This self-awareness allows you to adapt quickly in volatile or unfamiliar situations – an invaluable trait when presenting before a room full of strangers or superiors, for example".
"And then there’s the empathy factor. Women used to being constantly misunderstood focus more on the words someone says, rather than their tone, body cues, or facial expressions, ensuring a more effective flow of information between both parties.”
So there you have it. While RBFers are probably less likely to win over friends or colleagues immediately, we’re on a whole different level when it comes to interacting with them once we get to know them. Now can we just let strangers know to stop telling us to “cheer up love, it might never happen”?
By Laura Martin