National· August 16, 2026 at 12:01 a.m.
The Appropriate Amount of Eye Contact in Conversations
Key takeaways
- A study suggests that maintaining eye contact for about 60% of a conversation is generally considered appropriate
- Cultural norms and individual personalities play a significant role in determining what constitutes acceptable eye contact
- Active listening is important in addition to maintaining eye contact
A new report by CNN Staff explores the question of how much eye contact is considered appropriate during conversations. The common advice to look someone in the eye when speaking raises the question of what constitutes an acceptable amount.
According to the report, a study published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior found that maintaining consistent eye contact for too long can be perceived as aggressive or intimidating. However, avoiding eye contact entirely can also signal dishonesty or disinterest.
The study suggests that maintaining eye contact for about 60% of the time during a conversation is generally considered appropriate. This allows for a balance between engagement and comfort.
In response to the findings, experts emphasize that cultural norms and individual personalities play a significant role in determining what constitutes acceptable eye contact.
The study's authors note that while maintaining eye contact is important, it should not be at the expense of active listening. They advise focusing on both verbal and nonverbal cues to ensure effective communication.
As social interactions continue to evolve, understanding the appropriate amount of eye contact can help foster more meaningful conversations.
