PROXEMICS

How we use space to interact with the people around us is called proxemics. Although we might not realize it, we use proxemics every day. Whether it's in the grocery store, in class, or hanging out with a group of friends, proxemics is always in play. 

 

According to the proxemic theory, created by Edward T. Hall, there are four "zones" when interacting with others (Hall, 1968). The first is the intimate zone. This zone is 0-2 feet (45 centimeters) between two people communicating. The people that we allow into this zone are usually intimate romantic partners or someone we are very comfortable with.

 

The next zone is known as the personal distance zone or friend zone. The personal distance zone is measured at 2-4 feet (1.2 millimeters.) We communicate with people in the personal distance zone that are close friends and family. Often times we feel uncomfortable or violated if a stranger or someone we don't know well enters our personal distance zone. 

 

The third zone is the social distance zone. This zone measures from 4-12 feet (3.6 millimeters.) This is commonly used for business interactions, meeting a new person, or communicating in a role relationship. People communicating in this zone usually don't engage in physical contact. As with all zones, the measurement of the social distance zone can vary from person to person.

 

The last and largest zone is audience zone or public distance zone. There is 12 or more feet between people in the audience zone. We tend to consider the audience zone when we are presenting to a group of people.