How are men generally perceived in their use of eye contact during communication?

Men are generally perceived to use eye contact as a means of asserting dominance or control, which can often come across as intimidation in a communication context. This perception is rooted in societal norms that associate direct eye contact with confidence and authority. When men maintain sustained eye contact, it can signal competitiveness or an assertion of power, leading some to interpret this behavior as intimidating, especially in situations where power dynamics are at play.

This interpretation of eye contact varies significantly by gender, as socialization often encourages men to exhibit assertive behavior, which aligns with making direct eye contact. In contrast, women might be socialized to use eye contact in a manner that conveys connection and empathy, leading to different perceptions based on gender. This differentiation informs why the perception of men's eye contact can tilt toward intimidation rather than vulnerability or avoidance.