Education

UF psychologist finds forced, repeated smiling can backfire on mood

A University of Florida study of more than 1,170 participants found that while a single posed smile can briefly lift a person’s mood, being required to smile repeatedly — especially under financial pressure — eliminated that benefit and in some cases increased irritation and anger. The research, led by UF psychology professor Nicholas Coles and published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, adds nuance to long-held assumptions about the relationship between facial expression and emotion. The findings carry practical implications for workplace policies that require employees to maintain a smile throughout their shifts.

Sources: UF News