Women explore emotions early on in life and aren't discouraged from doing so. So by the time they're in relationships, they know the difference between upset, humiliated, disappointed, frustrated, sad, angry, anxious, insecure, or a whole slew of other emotions that everyone feels but some men haven't become aware of or been able to identify or express for fear of being called "weak." And again that non-threatening smiling instinct can happen here and be misconstrued as him thinking this is funny or not taking her seriously when really it's discomfort and awkwardness being expressed.
Both men and women, if you're frustrated that someone of the opposite sex is overreacting, playing dumb, getting mad for no reason, or putting you in an uncomfortable position, state in words as clearly as you can how you feel. Words can say what body language or misunderstanding signals cannot but only if they are spoken with honesty. Seek to understand as well as to be understood. Healthy communication is a two way street.
