Someone stands next you, a bit close. This person has long fingers, wears unusual clothing and works as a clown while bird-watching on weekends. What about that description makes this person creepy?
Well, according to scientists, all of the above. Researchers from Knox College in the US have been digging deep into what creeps humans out – and they have come up with a great list.
They also found that men are, on the whole, creepier than women.
Here are the study’s definitive lists ranging from creepy behavioural traits, creepy hobbies and the creepiest professions.
Creepiest behaviours
Standing too close to someone
Smiling peculiarly
Talking too much about a topic, especially sex
Laughing at inappropriate times
Not letting someone out of conversation
Displaying unwanted sexual interest
Asking to take pictures of people
Displaying too much or too little emotion
Having bulging eyes
Having long fingers
Having pasty skin
Having greasy hair
Having dark eye bags
Wearing dirty or weird clothes
Licking lips
Creepiest professions
Clown
Taxidermist
Sex shop owner
Funeral director
Taxi driver
“Creepiness is all about not being able to figure out whether there is a threat,” researcher Francis McAndrew said.
