How Do They Feel
How Should You Respond
Read Between the Lines
Nonverbal Communication
100

Your friend’s college application was rejected after months of preparation. How do they likely feel?

disappointed or frustrated

100

Your friend just told you they failed their driving test. How should you respond?

offer reassurance and tell them they can try again

100

You’re having a conversation with someone, but they keep checking their phone and avoiding eye contact. What could this behavior mean?

disinterest or discomfort

100

A friend sits with their arms crossed and doesn’t make eye contact during a conversation. What might their body language be indicating?

discomfort or defensiveness

200

After a heated argument with their parents, your friend spends the rest of the day alone in their room. How do they feel?

angry or upset  

200

A classmate is struggling with a group project and feels overwhelmed

offer to help with part of the work or break it down into smaller steps

200

Your friend says “I’m fine” in a quiet, flat tone after an argument. What are they likely feeling?

 hurt or upset, but not wanting to talk about it

200

You notice a classmate fidgeting with their hands during a presentation. What does this body language likely mean?

nervousness or anxiety

300

Your classmate suddenly starts avoiding social situations and doesn’t respond to texts. How might they be feeling?

anxious or depressed

300

Your friend says they feel left out because you’ve been hanging out with a new group of friends.

acknowledge their feelings and suggest spending time together soon

300

A classmate frequently compliments others but rarely speaks about themselves. What might they be feeling?

insecurity or a need for validation

300

During a discussion, someone’s body is turned away from the group and they frequently check their watch. What might this indicate?

disinterest or wanting to leave

400

A student who normally excels in school is visibly upset after failing a major exam. How do they feel?

devastated or ashamed

400

Someone you know is being made fun of for their appearance.

stand up for them and show support, or report the bullying to a trusted adult

400

You notice your friend suddenly begins laughing at everything in a tense social situation. What might be going on emotionally?

nervousness or trying to diffuse tension

400

A person suddenly becomes very still and quiet when they’re confronted. What could this mean?

fear, anxiety, or being overwhelmed

500

A friend who just transferred schools and doesn’t know anyone is sitting alone during lunch. How might they feeling?

lonely or isolated

500

A close friend just told you they’re going through a tough time at home but don’t want to talk about it in detail.

respect their privacy, let them know you're there for support, and check in with them later

500

During a class discussion, a student keeps interrupting others and speaking loudly. What could be the reason for this behavior?

needing attention, feeling unheard, or being anxious about making their point

500

You notice someone avoiding eye contact and giving short answers during a group conversation. What might they be feeling?

shyness, discomfort, or feeling out of place