Direct eye contact is when two people look in each other's eyes simultaneously. It is a form of nonverbal communication that can significantly influence social behavior. For example, humans usually use direct eye contact to convey interest, affection, or dominance. For example, you might make direct eye contact with someone you are flirting with or try to avoid eye contact if you feel scared or threatened. Our eyes contain a lot of information about how we are feeling, so making direct eye contact can be a way of sending a powerful message.