Ekspresjonsanalyse

Ekspresjonsanalyse is a psychological concept developed by Norwegian psychiatrist and psychotherapist Steinar J. Stalsett. It refers to the analysis of the types and manner of expression displayed by an individual in their behavior, speech, and body language. The term is derived from the Norwegian words "ekspresjon", meaning expression, and "analyse", meaning analysis.

Ekspresjonsanalyse involves paying close attention to non-verbal cues such as postures, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This approach emphasizes that much of human communication is rooted in unconscious and automatic responses, rather than conscious and rational ones. By acknowledging and understanding the underlying emotional and psychological drivers of an individual's expression, ekspresjonsanalyse aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of human behavior.

Stalsett's work on ekspresjonsanalyse is based on his experience as a psychotherapist and his interest in the art of maximizing the potential of the human psyche. He saw ekspresjonsanalyse as a powerful tool for identifying patterns of expression that influence interpersonal relationships. Practitioners of ekspresjonsanalyse focus on matching patterns in the expression of others, connecting with their way of experiencing the world, and situating the social context to understand interactions.

Ekspresjonsanalyse has been applied in various settings, including psychotherapy, counseling, and sociology. Although its scope is narrow, the approach emphasizes the value of deeper and empathetic understanding in interpersonal relations, making it a valuable perspective for observational and theoretical study.

Ekspresjonsanalyse remains a relatively niche concept within the broader fields of psychology and the humanities, with its applicability and theoretical status still being assessed.