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I've noticed in some cultures people break out into a giant grin when they are nervous or broaching a topic that makes them anxious. When I first encountered during a mild argument about something, I went from mild irritation to offended and demanded why the other person thought it was funny.

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I definitely do this, but I had no idea that it makes people uncomfortable. Am from Texas.

I’m trying to rationalize this now... I guess I think of it as tension defusing? Definitely going to be more cognizant of this.

Unless you're cackling like our VP I think you're fine.

Hmmm, let me explain a little more. I'm from New England and we're generally pretty grim faced and direct in public. It's not good, I wish we were a happier society and I actually like going to places where people are honestly friendly and warm.

But when there is an issue of some kind, or I'm getting frustrated, that's when grins can make the situation worse. Sometimes there is a language barrier and the other party is not sure why there is frustration, and the default smile reaction (because they are nervous or to defuse the situation with a smile) is counterproductive.

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