PROXEMICS

In 1966 Edward Hall developed a theory that describes the distance (and relationship of space) between people. The theory examines how the distance between two individuals effects their behaviour. Each person has a space in which they feel comfortable and this space is usually different for each individual. The space will very depending on your sex, culture etc. and can also depend on who is invading it.

Some physical/psychological effects people may experience when they feel their space is being intruded upon include: increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, tightness in chest area, stomach churns, shaking, dizziness, distress, avoidance

The diagram below demonstrates the average distances most people are comfortable with. An intimate relationship would be that of your partner; whereas the public space would apply to unknown people around you.