Social relationships shape our reactions
New research highlights how social relationships influence physiological responses within interpersonal space, suggesting implications for inclusive communication strategies and societal development.
Communication is at the heart of human interaction, and the space between individuals during face-to-face communication plays a crucial role.
This space, known as interpersonal space (IPS), isn’t just physical; it’s a realm where psychological and physiological responses intertwine.
Researchers have long delved into the effects of another person’s presence within this space, particularly focusing on how our bodies react when a stranger enters our personal bubble. Social relationships, it seems, hold considerable sway over these responses.
Consider a scenario: you’re chatting with a friend at a comfortable distance. Now, imagine a stranger suddenly steps into this conversation, getting a little too close for comfort. Your heart rate might increase, and you might feel a bit uneasy. This instinctual response, termed avoidance behavior, is well-documented in psychological literature.
But what if the person entering your IPS isn’t a stranger, but someone you know well — a friend, a family member, or a romantic partner? How does your body react then?
