Which body language conveys boredom?

Body language varies across cultures.

You might remember some lessons from elementary school where you were shown pictures of gestures from around the world, all having different meanings.  Some gestures or facial expressions are universal, such as a smile, a wave, or a look of shock.  This answer will focus on how boredom can show up in North American, Western. It is important to note that just because some of this body language may be present, it is best not to make assumptions about others.  You never know what could be going on for someone.

In general, boredom can often appear in our bodies as a lack of connection with the other or the thing with which one is supposed to interact.  If you are reading a book, perhaps your eyes begin to wander away from the book, maybe you lose your place as you read, maybe you constantly check your watch, or sigh heavily if it’s a particularly noninteresting topic.

In relating to other people, boredom most commonly shows up as averting one’s gaze from the other.  Sometimes, repetitive movements, such as tapping your fingers or feet, clicking a pen, interrupting, splitting your attention between various things/ multitasking, twirling your hair, doodling, rolling your eyes, yawning, eating, falling asleep, having side conversations, picking your skin, biting your nails, playing with fabric or tissue, folding paper, or any such movement can be a sign of boredom.

It’s best to check in with someone showing these signs to inquire if they are bored or what they might need in terms of support to pay attention.  It could be that the person has ADHD and needs more frequent breaks or movement, or it could be that the person is in pain.  It could be that someone has social anxiety or culturally that it is not common to make eye contact.  People often show boredom by lacking interest in something and may even appear to be pulling away, crossing their arms over their chest, putting their hands in their pockets, or displaying a “closed-off” appearance.