Depending on the people with whom communication occurs, each of us adheres to a certain distance. Exactly it determines the type of relationship between interlocutors. Everyone has their own personal space. Let’s talk about the zones between people in communication:
1. Intimate area (15-45 cm)
This zone is the most basic for every person, where they admit only relatives and friends, or those to whom we experience feelings. The zone from 0 to 15 cm is the most intimate zone with close physical contact.
2. Personal zone (45 cm – 1 meter)
This is the daily distance that people adhere to. Basically, this is the distance between friends. The personal zone may be violated by shaking hands and hugging (when you have not seen your friend for a long time and are so happy to see him). Then there is a moment when you let them into your personal zone, but then again stick to your personal zone, protecting your personal space.
3. Social zone (1 meter – 3.5)
This is the distance between people who do not know each other. For example, they called you at the door, you open it, and a representative of the company came to you, which distributes its products. You stick to the social zone. When a company representative begins to offer you products, they try to establish contact and enter your personal zone, offering to look at the catalog or hold the goods in hand.
How to Deal with Distance in Communication?
In everyday life, violation of the intimate zone and personal space from the side of strangers causes negative emotions. People regard this as an invasion of a zone without their consent, and this in turn raises a danger and a threat. A good example is people who go to rush hour in the subway or public transport. It is then possible to trace how people get irritated, everyone tries to find an area where, at least, he will protect his personal space.
When communicating with a girl or boy who is newly acquainted, there is a personal zone between them. They communicate, being in a personal zone until one enters the intimate zone. When you touch a person who you like, violating personal space, you give him a signal that he lets you into his intimate zone. Only do this in stages, so as not to cause aggression or unpleasant feelings. To violate the intimate zone, you need to evoke positive emotions that they have to violate your personal space.
The distance between people who kiss and hug each other will differ from those who came to congratulate you on your birthday. People who are kissing will cling to each other tightly. People who came to congratulate you, too, will embrace and kiss you, but the lower (pelvic) part of the body will observe a distance of 15 cm. Your distance with the interlocutor will show your attitude towards them.
Maria is a writer who specializes in couples counseling and encourages people to become more intimate with one another. If you come across informative articles with personal viewpoints or research-based pieces that highlight the stages of creating healthy relationships, these pieces are probably written by Maria. The author emphasizes the importance of self-growth before seeking a romantic partner.
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