Interaction Zones

I felt that the Interaction Zone Table 5.3 shows in the book was interesting. I knew people had comfort levels, but I didn't realize there was types of distance. For instance the "intimate distance" It's when the two people who are having a conversation are about eighteen inches apart. This type of distance is used for private conversations or inmate discussions (Trenholm 2008). The next distance that is described is the "personal distance" this can go as close to eighteen inches and as long as four feet. This is for friendly conversations. I think it's for people who are comfortable around each other but still want to keep that little distance. Then there is "social distance" which can go anywhere from four feet to twelve feet, this distance is used for business purposes. Lastly, there is "public distance" is twelve feet to wherever you can hear and see that person. This last distance is for public speaking and such. I believe this is useful information because it shows the four main settings a person will be placed in. It shows one which is a safe distance and which isn't so you don't make whoever you are speaking to uncomfortable or if you are the listener you know what is a proper distance for oneself without looking like you don't like the person or are uninterested. Some people like to keep a distance and they don't like people in their space. I'm honestly going to start using these techniques because I feel as though professionally there should be a certain amount of closeness, but you don't want to be at an intimate distance and overstep your boundaries. Overall I think this concept is extremely useful. [ All information was found on Page 129 table 5.3 ]