Chapter 5 & Proxemics

While reading Chapter 5 the discussion of proxemics was very interesting to me. Trenholm defines proxemics as the study of how we use space and what space means to us. There are many different forms of space, but personal space is very important. Personal space, intimate space these lines should not be crossed in a public territory of any kind. When you are in a public territory where there are many people bumping into someone or being very close to another person on a bus or in a crowd can cause personal space to be invaded. Trenholm discusses body territory as a personal area, personal space. There are areas on our body which we let people touch, such as hand shakes, but we do not always give out hugs.

Cultural differences provide a variety of proxemics and what is acceptable. Within the Japanese community bowing is known as a cultural greeting not shaking hands. The lower the bow is the more respect one shows. Personal space is normally not invaded, distance is key and hugging and kisses are widely used. Within the Hispanic community, kisses and hugs are a must when you first arrive and when you leave. If you do not say hello to an elder than you are showing much disrespect. A hug and a kiss on the cheek is how to greet an aunt or an uncle.

Each individual has their own personal rules of proxemics and different cultures have their own regulations and rules of proxemics.