Types of Flirting

Types of Flirting

Flirting may consist of stylized gestures, language, body language, postures, and physiologic signs which act as cues to another person. Among these, at least in Western society, are:

• Eye contact, batting eyelashes, staring, winking, etc.
• "Protean" signals, such as touching one's hair
• Giggling, or laughing encouragingly at any slight hint of intimacy in the other's behavior
• Casual touches; such as a woman gently touching a man's arm during conversation
• Smiling suggestively
• Sending notes, poems, or small gifts
• Flattery (regarding beauty, sexual attractiveness)
• Online chat, texting and other one-on-one and direct messaging services while hinting affection.
• Footsie, a form of flirtation in which people use their feet to play with each others' feet. This generally takes place under a table or in bed while rubbing feet. Participants often remove their shoes and play barefoot; however, it can also be played in socks, or wearing shoes. Though this method can backfire, as the general opinion of feet can depend on the culture and society of the area.
• Teasing
• Banter
• Staging of "chance" encounters
• Imitating of behaviors (e.g. taking a drink when the other person takes a drink, changing posture as the other does, etc).
• Coyness, affectedly shy or modest, marked by cute, coquettish, or artful playfulness (e.g. pickup lines).
• Giving flying kisses.
• Singing love songs in presence of the girl/boy.
• Maintaining very short distance during casual talking.

The effectiveness of these several interactions has been subjected to detailed analysis by behavioral psychologists, and advice on their use is available from dating coaches.