We've all heard the phrase, "fake it till you make it." But can this concept apply to happiness? Surprisingly, science shows that even forcing a smile can make your brain think you are happier. This is called the facial feedback hypothesis, and it suggests that there is a strong link between our facial expressions and our emotional states.
The Facial Feedback Hypothesis
The facial feedback hypothesis proposes that facial movements can influence emotional experiences. In essence, smiling (even when you don't want to) can initiate positive emotions.
One of the most well-known studies that used the facial feedback hypothesis was by psychologist Fritz Strack in 1988. In his study, participants were given a pen to hold either with their teeth (which caused forced smiling) or with their lips (which causes no smiling). Those who "smiled" when creating smile with holding the pen using their teeth rated cartoons funnier than those who held the pen using their lips. This indicates that the act of physically smiling resulted in a better entertainment experience.