If both these messages are congruent with each other our communication is effective. However, when there is a discrepancy we rely more on non-verbal cues for additional information. However, at the same time if the receiver is not sensitive enough they can be easily misinterpreted. We feel uneasy if we can not see the eyes of the person with whom we are talking. Avoiding eye contact is considered as a sign of dishonesty, lack of self-confidence and boredom.
Eye contact serves an important role in maintaining and initiating conversation.
For e.g. when the speaker takes pause while talking and gazes at the listener it serves as a cue to the listener to speak. People maintain more eye contact when they are interested in conversation or when they are seeking approval of others. It is difficult to ignore a person who looks directly at you while placing some request or demand. It defines the nature and the intensity of interpersonal relations. Couples in love maintain more eye contact.