We define personal space as the area surrounding a person that he or she considers his territory or domain. Crossing or entering someone else’s personal space creates discomfort because people feel the physical intimacy exceeds the relational intimacy. Keep in mind though, too much space can cause discomfort and indicate rudeness as well. The size of the personal space bubble varies by culture and situation.
Americans usually have larger personal space boundaries than people from other cultures. If you notice someone backing up a little while talking to you, don’t step toward them as they most likely feel uncomfortable with the lack of distance between you.
Under certain circumstances people can accept having their personal space entered without experiencing discomfort. Examples might include romantic encounters and crowded subways or events. In business environments people typically maintain more personal space between them than in social situations. Also, personal space boundaries between a man and a woman usually remain larger than those between two women. Especially in Thai culture, if a man and a woman are not a couple, they will aware for personal space. Actually, I don’t know why? May be it’s like our traditional that Thai people to do this pattern.
However, people who live in highly populated areas often have a smaller personal space bubble than those who live in less populated areas. People of higher status or wealth usually have larger personal space bubbles as well.
Finally, how about you…Do you think space is important when you communicate with people?
Why is that we seem to need this personal space bubble? If cultures that have smaller personal space - still need some, so it appears that everyone has the need for some distance from others. I wonder where this need comes from - many animals don't seem to need it - they can rub up against each other all day without seeming disturbed. Is it something learned or something in our nature?
ตอบลบ