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Proxemic Theory

Developed by American anthropologist Edward T. Hall in the 1960s, proxemics is a non-verbal communication theory that describes how people utilize space to achieve communication goals. The term was coined by Hall in order to discuss our use of space and how differences in that can affect how we feel and communicate. In 1959, Hall wrote his first book, The Silent Language, in which he analyzes different aspects of nonverbal communication and the concepts of space and time as different means for the transmission of messages.

Proxemic Theory Ideas

1. The four types of distances that people keep are intimate, personal, social and public.
2. These distances are specifically outlined by by individuals.
3. Proxemic behavior is generally learned by observing others rather than from instruction, which explains why personal distance and physical contact norms vary across cultures.
4. Physical distance between people is an indication of of the type of relationship they hold.

Proxemic Territories

1. Body Territory - the personal space, or "bubble", that one maintains around themselves
2. Primary Territory - the living space or home of a person; a place where one feels they can most be themselves
3. Secondary Territory - the structured place reserved for particular individuals where certain norms are expected (schools, offices, work, etc)
4. Public Territory - any neutral open space where people are free to come and go

Culture Types

In order to understand how people communicate differently non-verbally, Hall began by separating cultures into two categories: contact and non-contact. In contact cultures, physical touch is permitted, and even necessary in order to establish interpersonal relationships between acquaintances. In non-contact cultures, physical touch is reserved for only the most intimate of relationships. Richard D. Lewis, famous for his "Lewis Model of Cross-Cultural Communication", expanded Halls' ideas later on by defining three specific culture types based on their communication styles.

1. Linear-Active: Cool, logical, and decisive (non-contact). People tend to be direct and sometimes impatient, but usually remain reserved while dealing with facts. This type of communication is mostly found in the United States and most Northern European cultures.
2. Multi-Active: Warm and impulsive (contact). People are enthusiastic in their communication, express emotion, and prefer using personal stories as opposed to facts. These people interrupt conversation a lot and display impatience. This type of communication is most found in countries like Brazil, Mexico and Greece.
3. Reactive: Accommodating and non-confrontational (non-contact). These people typically value decorum and diplomacy instead of facts and emotions. They are very patient in listening and remain reserved in the use of their body language and facial expressions. This type of communication is found in countries like Vietnam, China and Japan.

Measuring Proxemics

When studying proxemics, there are many factors that must be included. For example, Edward T. Hall looked at body posture and angle, physical distance and touch, eye contact and vocal volume when studying the types of distance that people create between themselves and others. Some other concepts that were found beneficial to study include age, gender, social status, topic of conversation and environmental noise.

When doing proxemic research, it is usually done through observation in either a laboratory or a natural setting. In observation, the physical distance maintained between two subjects is measured along with other factors. Researchers sometimes use a technique called projection. In projection, subjects simulate proxemic behavior by arranging objects on a flat surface while researchers then measure the distance between said objects according to scale.

Approaches to Proxemic Theory

Various research into proxemics has resulted in two theories about why people utilize space in their communication.

1. Equilibrium Theory: Proxemics is an aid to humans while maintaining the status quo. People tend to adjust different proxemic factors during a conversation in order to keep relationships at a consistent level.
2. Expectancy Violations Theory: Proxemics help human obtain what they want. Those who go against the spatial expectations of others often achieve specific communication goals. Violation often yields a better outcome as opposed to equilibrium.