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Many liars are suddenly distracted by a need to smooth down their hair, align a pen on the desk, or push in a chair at a table. These actions can be indicators that the person is lying. Sometimes this is just a sign that the person likes things in order, so consider their personality and habits. Someone who is lying might clear their throat more frequently or swallow significantly before answering a question. While many liars are not fidgety, they may still bring their hands to their face. Under the stress of fabricating a story, a liar may experience some level of anxiety. This may cause blood to drain from the extremities, including the ears. Sometimes, this can cause tickling or another sensation, and the individual might bring their hands up to touch the ears. Liars often press their lips together more firmly and frequently when not telling the truth. Sometimes, this might indicate concentration, which a liar often has to have in order to fabricate their story. Lying requires more cognitive energy, since the liar needs to concentrate harder while exerting mental energy. People tend to blink less frequently when they are expending cognitive energy, so look for decreased blinking if you think someone is lying. The same can be said for fidgeting. People often fidget less when they have increased cognitive function such as when they are lying. Many people who are lying tend to stand very still. Some attribute this to the body's reaction to a threatening situation. Similar to the fight-or-flight response, the body stands still, ready to fight. Defensive body postures can indicate frustration, the desire to be left alone, or the fact that the person feels chilly. But sometimes they indicate that someone feels threatened. If the person acts defensive during a casual conversation, then something may be off. Defensive body postures may include: Arms folded over their chest. The tighter their arms are folded, the more defensive they may be feeling. Clenched fists. Tight, white-knuckle clenched fists indicate a more defensive posture. Crossed legs. Sitting with their legs crossed can be a relaxed posture, but if they are displaying any other defensive posture signs, then they may be lying.
Notice if they are grooming or adjusting something. Listen for throat clearing and swallowing. See if their hands keep touching their face. Watch for lips pressed firmly together. Look for decreased blinking. Monitor the person's body movement. Note any defensive body postures.