Benefits of the Duchenne Smile and Positive Emotions. A Systematic Review

Abstract

The Duchenne smile is the genuine smile characterized by the activation of the muscles around the eyes and mouth. It has been associated, in the specialized literature, with the experience of positive emotions. Through the present work, using a qualitative approach, we aimed to identify and systematize the studies carried out in the period 2010-2023 that investigated the relationship between the Duchenne smile and positive emotions. Following the application of specific keywords, 611 studies were identified, from which, after applying the inclusion-exclusion criteria, 8 studies were included in the review. A conclusion could not be drawn regarding the idea that the Duchenne smile is indisputably an indicator of positive emotions, but the data provide us with important information such as the following: the Duchenne smile is associated with experiencing positive emotions (happiness, joy, hope, contentment) and manifests itself in the context of affiliation and cooperation. It has an important role in triggering extended cognitive states (attentional ones) and can be performed voluntarily (in the presence/absence of a positive emotion), having the same health benefits as spontaneous smiling. In addition, the Duchenne smile increases the acceptance rate of feedback given by teachers in class. The relationship between the Duchenne smile and positive emotions is context dependent.