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Shame & Embarrassment

Primarily Postural
Social & Self-Conscious2 Action Unitsbilateralsustained duration

The head and eyes are directed downward, and the posture is often slumped or contracted.

FACS Breakdown

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AU 54Head Down

Associated with shame and submission

headeasy difficultyVoluntary
Muscle: Neck/Postural Muscles
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AU 64Eyes Down

Gaze aversion in shame or embarrassment

eyeseasy difficultyVoluntary
Muscle: Extraocular Muscles

Practice Tip

Unlike pride, shame is about concealment and withdrawal. There is no single, universal facial signal for shame; the expression is primarily postural.

Quick Stats

TypeSocial
Symmetrybilateral
Durationsustained
Action Units2

AU Summary

AU 54AU 64
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