Silence feels uncomfortable because it means no one is talking, and that can feel strange. When people are in a conversation, they expect words, like when you’re playing a game and you need to take turns saying things. If someone stops speaking and no one else starts, it’s like the game has paused, and everyone feels confused or nervous.
Examples
- At a party, you say goodbye to someone, but instead of talking more, they just walk away.
- During a classroom discussion, your friend stops speaking and no one else starts again.
- On a first date, after asking about their job, there’s a long pause before the next question.
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See also
- Why Do People Feel ‘Anxious’ in Crowded Places?
- Why Do People Often Believe in Conspiracy Theories?
- Why Do We Yawn When We're Tired?
- Why Do Some People Hear Music in Their Heads?
- Why Do People Get Stressed Out by the Same Things Over and Over?
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Categories: Psychology · social anxiety,communication,nonverbal behavior