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Showing posts from May, 2010

PROXEMICS

You've probably had this experience at some point in your life. Someone walks up to talk with you and stands so close you feel uncomfortable and maybe even subconsciously take a step backwards. Or, someone sits down next to you so close that you squirm a bit and slide away. What has happened? Someone else has invaded your personal space, and that creates a strong reaction inside of you. What is Proxemics? The study of personal space and how humans use distance in general is called proxemics. The term "proxemics" was first used in 1963 by an anthropologist and researcher named E.T. Hall, who was fascinated with how people communicate nonverbally using spatial relationships and territory. Through his research he demonstrated and defined four areas of space relevant to proxemics: 1. Intimate space 2. Personal space 3. Social space 4. Public space There is no single set distance for each of these spaces because there is so much variation. The use of space is a dynam

CONTEXT AND ENVIRONMENT

The meaning and interpretation of body language is greatly affected by the context and environment in which it takes place. Some non-verbal behavior is appropriate in some situations but not others. In this we will explore these concepts in more detail so by the end you'll have a better understanding of how context and environment influence body language, both in terms of appropriateness and meaning. How Context and Environment Influence Body Language Context and environment influence body language in ways both obvious and subtle. Some are due to social norms, some are due to life experience, and some are due to individual personality and self-esteem. There are generational differences, gender differences, and cultural differences, as well. It really all comes down to perceptions. How do you perceive the context and environment where you are right now? If you're at home you're probably dressed casually, maybe drinking a soda or a cup of coffee, and there might be music.