A comparative study of smiling facial expressions and display rules of the Thai and the Japanese

Authors

Tippayarat Pothisitthiporn
Kiyoshi Maiya

Publication Date

2016-01-01

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the similarities and differences between Thai and Japanese smiling facial expressions. The interview was conducted with Thai and Japanese participants. The results show that Thais tend to experience happiness in situations related to excitement and stability signifi cantly more than the Japanese, while the Japanese tend to experience happiness in situations related to relief and self-concept to a signifi cantly greater degree than Thais. The results also indicate that, in situations where they do not feel happy, Thais tend to smile when they are greeting or apologizing signifi cantly more than the Japanese, who tend to smile to conform to the group signifi cantly more than Thais. The reasons for smiling are also diff erent. When smiling with a neutral feeling, the Japanese tend to nod signifi cantly more often than Thais. When smiling with sadness in their minds, Thais tend to raise their cheeks (AU6) signifi cantly more often than the Japanese. The bases of Thai and Japanese smiles are argued on social characteristics, social values and their education systems.

DOI

10.58837/CHULA.ARV.29.1.6

First Page

101

Last Page

121

Recommended Citation

Pothisitthiporn, Tippayarat and Maiya, Kiyoshi (2016) "A comparative study of smiling facial expressions and display rules of the Thai and the Japanese," Asian Review: Vol. 29: No. 1, Article 7.
DOI: 10.58837/CHULA.ARV.29.1.6
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/arv/vol29/iss1/7