The subject of the study is human perception and how it relates to physical proximity between people.
Personal Space
Personal space is the distance that separates one person from another. It can be measured in terms of feet, meters, or inches, but it also exists psychologically. There are several zones within this area which vary according to the relationship between individuals. These include public space, social space, intimate space, and personal space. Public spaces are open for anyone to enter without an invitation. Social spaces require permission before entering, and intimate spaces are reserved for close friends and family members. Each zone has its own set of rules and boundaries that must be respected.
When multiple bodies occupy the same space, they create interference with each other's personal space. This can lead to feelings of discomfort or anxiety if those bodies are too close together. The closer someone gets, the more likely they are to feel uncomfortable. People who have experienced trauma may react differently than those who haven't when their personal space is violated.
A victim of sexual assault might feel threatened by touch even when there isn't any threat present. They may avoid certain activities because they trigger memories of the assault.
Boundaries
Boundaries are the limits we set for ourselves and others. They help us keep our personal space intact while interacting with others. They allow us to maintain control over our emotions and reactions. Without them, we become vulnerable to harmful influences. Boundaries can be verbal (e.g., "Please don't touch me") or non-verbal (e.g., crossing arms). When people cross our boundaries without consent, we may respond in various ways, such as pushing back physically or emotionally. It's important not to ignore these responses; instead, acknowledge them and discuss how best to manage them moving forward.
Embodied Identity
Our physical bodies play an essential role in determining our identity. We use them to express ourselves through clothing choices, body language, facial expressions, etc. Our gender also affects how we view ourselves and interact with others based on societal norms.
This doesn't mean that everyone fits into neat categories; some identities exist outside of traditional binary categories.
Some people identify as transgender, meaning they do not conform to the expected gender roles assigned at birth.
When multiple bodies occupy the same space, embodied identities may come into conflict. This can lead to misunderstandings or tension if one person tries to enforce their boundary while another ignores it. One way to prevent this is by establishing clear communication before entering a situation where you might encounter multiple bodies. Talk about what your expectations are so there's no confusion later on. If someone violates those boundaries, speak up immediately and firmly without resorting to violence or aggression.
How does the presence of multiple bodies affect the experience of personal space, boundaries, and embodied identity?
The presence of multiple bodies within close proximity can have various impacts on an individual's sense of personal space, boundaries, and embodied identity. Psychologically, individuals may feel overwhelmed by being surrounded by others who are physically near them, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and discomfort. This can result in feelings of claustrophobia, reduced privacy, and decreased control over one's physical environment.