Various studies have attempted to establish what happens when two people look at one another in the eye. If we feel we are being observed a process is triggered that increases our self-awareness, improves our memory, makes us more altruistic and more honest. Our interpretation of outside events is more personal and inclusive. Someone’s gaze means we are the object of attention and that we might be subject to social evaluations that could affect our reputation. Many of these responses are beneficial and are triggered even when we simply look at photos of people looking in the direction of the camera (and therefore at us). Researchers are trying to see if people’s gaze can be used therapeutically in specific cases. If we see the eyes of someone who is not looking at us, we usually avoid setting up eye contact, but if contact does occur, then neural circuits are activated that alert various physiological processes so that we are ready for the imminent social interaction. If the person who looks us in the eye says things that we already believe, we are receptive to what is said and to what happens in that context. If instead, we are in disagreement with the things that are said, then looking at us in the eye has a boomerang effect and it becomes difficult to convince us of what is being said, even if the reasons are valid. Looking in the eye does not help convince but instead reinforces the starting position of the other person which might be of approval or skepticism. Looking in the eye gives confidence but also intimidation and fear. Frightened children do not look in the eye and those with anxiety disorders avoid eye contact even if there is nothing to be frightened about. The question is if training these children to look in the eye might be useful. Looking in the eye may also ‘calm’ aggressors unless it is in defiance but this is less likely on the part of a child.