15 Examples of Proxemic Language

Proxemic language

The proxemic language It is that verbal and non-verbal language that the speaker uses according to the distance that exists between him and the person to whom he is speaking.

This concept was proposed by Edward hall in the year 1963. He studied that the type of proxemic language varies depending on the culture to which a person belongs. For example, in cultures of Latin origin the distance of comfort is closer between people than in European culture.

From there it is extracted that a person of Latin origin maintains a conversation with a certain closeness with another European person and that the Latin sits in absolute comfort, while the European feels a little invaded.

The distance between the speakers can vary, not only according to the culture of the speakers (cultures) but will also be determined by the type of bond (affective or distant) between both parties.

Being aware of these distances and differences can facilitate verbal communication.

Proxemic language types

There are four types of proxemic languages, according to the space of closeness or distance between the speakers:

Fixed space and semi-fixed space

Hall also detected that there are two types of spaces:

Distances

What's more Hall identified four distances that each person uses to interact with others:

Examples of proxemic language

Minimal distance:

1. Two people hugging.
2. Two people kissing.
3. A mother and daughter walking together hand in hand.

Personal distance:

1. Co-workers who share the same desk.
2. Meeting between an employee and his boss.
3. Confession between a priest and the believer in the confessional.
4. A family dinner or lunch.

Social distance:

1. Labor meetings.
2. Job interviews.
3. Outings to a pub or disco.
4. Attend a recital.
5. Share a means of public transport.

Public distance:

1. Meet at an airport.
2. Visit a park or public square.
3. Share a conference.