neutral facial expressions can serve as a form of emotional regulation
Form of coping mechanism.
5 Matching Annotations
- Oct 2025
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www.psychologytoday.com www.psychologytoday.com
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“cringe”
Gen Z slang.
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The Gen Z stare is characterized by a neutral or blank facial expression. In photos, the Gen Z stare looks like direct, unblinking eye contact with the camera, with no smile or overt emotion. Unlike previous generations who often aimed to appear friendly, like they were having a good time, many Gen Zers seem to be adopting a flat, emotionally neutral look. It can be hard to tell whether it’s ironic or authentic—or both
This paragraph in particular displays the emotion behind the Gen Z stare.
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major topic of peer-reviewed psychological research, related studies suggest it may reflect generational themes around identity, visibility, emotion regulation, and digital self-presentation.
Reflects the struggles behind the Gen-Z stare.
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"Gen Z stare"—a deadpan, unsmiling facial expression often seen in selfies and social media videos—has attracted growing cultural and psychological interest.
I wager TikTok was the first to point this out because it's a Gen-Z orientated platform. The introduction also describes what the Gen-Z stare means, which I appreciate.
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