Very good topic! I notice absolutely everything on my children and husband. My parents didn't notice a thing on me. Scenario #1 is caring and being involved. Scenario #2 is neglect because of mental health issues.

I used to think that ANY comment about me by someone else was a criticism. "Your eyes are green" ---> "What's wrong with my eyes"? I had to learn that these comments weren't criticism.

Something that I have learned along the way of my healing is body awareness. I think that it is really helpful. Maybe the T is trying to teach you this? If you shrink with his comments this tells him that this is a very fruitful area for work. Shrinking from comments indicates low self worth I think. You must want to blend into the wall on most days? It is okay to be seen.

Which reminds me, was it dangerous to be noticed while growing up?

Finally, yes, a lot of info can be gathered about a person by just looking at them. Are their shoulders slumped? Are the head and eyes down? Is the person taking time to groom and take care of themselves? Baggy clothes for hiding?

Finally, healthy people who care about you notice you.