People’s reactions to being called ‘beautiful’ are just that

A social experiment featuring people’s reactions to being called “beautiful” has offered a powerful demonstration of the vulnerability kind words can evoke.

A video of the experiment, filmed by 18-year-old Chicago high school student Shea Glover and uploaded to YouTube on May 27, has accumulated more than 1,739,700 views.

Ms Glover says her intentions were “not to get a reaction out of people” but to simply film “beauty”.

The video shows a range of seemingly spontaneous responses by participants, most of whom Ms Glover claims she was not acquainted with prior to the shoot.

Many can be seen breaking into abashed grins or laughter.

“This so awkward,” one can be heard saying.

Others react with visible discomfort or suspicion.

“I kinda don’t believe you at this point,” another says.

One woman even threatens Ms Glover, believing she is being mocked.

“I’ll cut you in the face,” she snaps.

The final participant appears completely overwhelmed with joy.

“This has been such a great day,” she exclaims.