Featured image credit: University of Glasgow
Perhaps people think they can judge a person's wealth by what they wear, what they do, where they live, or perhaps what perfume they wear.
But did you know that recent research shows that people judge whether a person is rich or poor based solely on the shape of their face?
Move over the “resting bitch face”. There's a new sheriff in town, and he's known as the “Resting Rich Face.”
The shape of your face can influence what people think about your wealth and career, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Glasgow.
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The study involved 30 white, native English speakers with an average age of 22 years.
They were asked to look at a 3D model of a person's face and judge the person's wealth and social status, as well as whether the person was competent, good-natured, dominant, and trustworthy. .
The study found that faces perceived as “wealthy” are considered more trustworthy, especially those with chiseled features, raised eyebrows, and rosy cheeks.
However, faces that are considered “poor” have lowered eyebrows, a shorter chin, a lowered mouth, and a colder skin tone, making them look distinctly cold and untrustworthy.
Lead author of the study, Dr. Thora Bjornsdottir, said this kind of judgment based solely on appearance can have long-term effects on such people.
university of glasgow
She says, “People considered to be of high and low social class are often judged to have favorable or unfavorable characteristics, respectively.
“Such judgments, formed even from facial appearance alone, can have serious consequences, including disadvantaging those perceived to be of lower social class.
“Stereotypes that we hold bias our perceptions.
“Our impressions of others can lead to certain advantages or disadvantages for that person.”
The study also showed that faces considered “unsightly” appeared more “infantile” and had rounded features similar to children's faces.
At the same time, “fuller” faces were perceived as longer and more defined. They usually had a prominent nose, an upturned “smiling” mouth, and a high forehead. Those surveyed said these traits made them appear more dominant, competent, and sincere.
Professor Rachel Jacques said: “Our research shows how certain facial attributes play an important role in linking perceptions of social class with associated stereotypes.
“These findings are not only valuable in advancing our understanding of core social cognitive theories, but may also inform future interventions aimed at interrupting biased perceptions.”
Topic: Science, Money
