Personal Space and the Impact of Eye Contact

Categories: Communication Eye Personal Тhе Space

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Personal Space and eye contact are two crucial aspects of human behavior that have garnered significant attention from scientists and research institutions. Jeff Hughes and Morton Goldman (1978) conducted a study on how variations in eye contact and the behavior of an experimental confederate can impact the violation of personal space. The concept of Personal Space is subjective and can be defined as the area individuals maintain around themselves, within which intrusion by others can cause discomfort (Hayduk, 1978).

Described as a bubble of space surrounding an individual, Personal Space is a complex phenomenon.

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Buchanan, Goldman, and Juhnke (1977) define Personal Space as a physical space around an individual that, when intruded upon, elicits a visible reaction of discomfort or a desire to retreat. One key factor influencing personal space is body position. Whether a person is sitting or standing can significantly alter their personal space boundaries. Hartnett, Bailey, and Hartley (1974) found that individuals were approached closer in the sitting position, regardless of their height.

From a territorial perspective, individuals may perceive sitting as less threatening and, therefore, less intrusive to others' personal space. Another factor affecting personal space is physical disability. Wright (1983) suggests that negative attitudes towards individuals with physical disabilities can be deeply ingrained and resistant to change. Kleck (1968) also observed that people tend to give more personal space to individuals with physical disabilities during social interactions compared to those without disabilities.

While body position and physical disability have been extensively studied in relation to personal space, the role of eye contact remains an underexplored variable.

Buchanan et al. (1977) conducted field experiments showing that males are more likely to invade the personal space of another male who avoids eye contact, rather than one who maintains direct eye contact. Similarly, female subjects preferred to violate the personal space of a female confederate who made eye contact with them. Interestingly, females tend to avoid invading the personal space of males who establish direct eye contact.

However, females may be more inclined to intrude upon the personal space of a male who smiles and maintains direct eye contact, compared to a male with his back turned. Argyle and Dean's research indicates that eye contact decreases as proximity increases, suggesting that individuals find prolonged eye contact unpleasant and tend to avoid it as closeness grows. Therefore, variations in gaze behavior can impact personal space boundaries, with the expectation that maintaining eye contact during interaction may result in larger personal space between individuals.

In conclusion, Personal Space and eye contact are interconnected elements of human interaction that play a significant role in social dynamics. Understanding the factors influencing personal space, such as body position, physical disability, and eye contact, can provide valuable insights into human behavior and relationships. Further research exploring the nuanced interactions between these variables is essential for a comprehensive understanding of personal space and its implications in various social contexts.