What's up with people covering their mouths whenever they are in shock?

[Xpred]

Or whenever they're in complete awe or "Oh my God..." .. I never understood this or how it came to be. Perhaps this is just another one of them crazy human motor movements?

 

[TheChort]

i think opening ones mouth is more reflex than anything, and covering it up is just the habit of not leaving your mouth open for everyone to see

but i dont have an answer to why we open our mouths

 

[etalns]

Originally posted by: TheChort
i think opening ones mouth is more reflex than anything, and covering it up is just the habit of not leaving your mouth open for everyone to see

but i dont have an answer to why we open our mouths

Giggity!

 

[hemiram]

I only see women and "girly men" do this, it's just not something I've seen a man do.

 

[0roo0roo]

do monkeys do it?

 

[loic2003]

a) Because you're in shock so the body draws in a deep gulp of air.
b) The instict is to open the eyes as wide as possible; opening the mouth further widens the eyes (think women putting on eye liner).
c) Hand over face is two-fold: one is a subconcious comforting tell akin to hiding behind something to feel safer (hence people doing it also when embarrased or lying).
d) Two, to a lesser extent, it's a more consious politness issue similar to when you yawn, or whatever.

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