I think perhaps my perspective has been shaded by living in a small population area for the last 15 years.
I have no difficulty looking people directly in the eyes, however I think I project gentleness and humor. I reserve the "crazy-grandma" (one of
my reknown ancestors) look for those who deserve it.
I think sometimes -- and I noticed this when we lived in a large population density -- people use their eye contact as a weapon, to ward off, to warn,
to incite fear. Even 15 years ago, an errant look at a stoplight had the potential of causing a confrontation. Perhaps some are conscious of the
threat in modern times and just opt out.
I'm nearly deaf in both ears -- shooting and punk bands (however not at the same time lol) -- and some of my friends have said that upon meeting me,
they were unnerved by my looking at their mouths, rather than eyes. Hey, it's how I hear, for the most part. Men with bushy moustaches are very
difficult for me to understand when they speak.
I think I feel more respect for someone who looks at my eyes directly. Not to say that I disrespect those that don't; I think I'm more likely to
trust someone who looks at me when they speak.