by Joan Inong

Created on: August 19, 2009   Last Updated: December 28, 2011

People can usually determine other people's moods just by looking at their body language. Body language is an important part of communicating effectively, and it will usually clue you in to particular moods. So, for example, if you are trying to figure out whether or not someone is lying to you, you can do so by employing the following:

1. Judge body language

Body language will usually tell you what you want to know. This is because people have a more difficult time trying to conceal how their bodies hide or show their real moods. Take, for instance, this example: have you ever been so angry that you could not even hide your anger? How was your body language? Were you able to disguise your true mood?

In a similar way, you can tell if a person is lying just by judging their body language. Some clues are:

-The person is not able to look at your eyes. Eyes can be a tell-tale sign of a person's real mood or personality. If the person you suspect is lying to you cannot look at you in the eyes while speaking to you, he or she is probably not telling the truth.

-The person is fidgety. Anxiety and nervousness can cause the person to become uncomfortable. This is a sign that the person is lying.

-The person cannot speak properly. Stuttering or hesitation can clue you in to what the person is actually trying to tell you.

2. The story isn't straight

Even if the other person has mastered the art of body language, you can still determine whether or not he or she is lying to you. Just keep asking details about the story you have been told. Ask the opposite questions.

Start your questions with, "So, you said that..." and then end with, "...right?" By saying this last word, you are trying to confirm the story, and trying to get the story right. If the person's other details do not seem to follow the original story, you may be talking to a liar.

3. Relationship changes

If your relationship changes in any way, the other person may be hiding something from you. Although a little different from lying, the two can be coupled together in the same situation. Note any changes in your relationship, and bring them up with the other person. What does the other person's body language tell you?

Although these simple steps can help you determine whether or not someone is lying to you, you may have to resort to flat-out asking the person yourself. The direct way is sometimes the best, and the only, way.

Learn more about this author, Joan Inong.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.