Friday, March 12, 2010

W7 - Discussion Question # 2

Proxemics is “the individual boundary individuals draw around themselves” (pg. 117), also known as “personal space”. Unfortunately, I do not think there are universal rules regarding proxemics since every culture interprets personal space differently. I would have to say the exception to that rule would be romantic relationships because as far as what I know, it is acceptable to be in close physical contact with your romantic partner in the public or private sphere, no matter what culture you are from.



Personally, I value my personal space, more so that most people. I am known amongst my friends not being touchy-feely and I rarely like to give or receive hugs or really show any physical affection for that matter. A couple of years ago, a new manager came on board and she happened to be extremely “friendly” and would always greet me with a hug and kiss me on the cheek. At first, I would let it go because she was new and I did not want to offend her; however, after a few more times I started to feel really uncomfortable and decided I would tell her that I do not like to “physically” greet people. It was awkward to confront her on this matter, but luckily she was understanding and explained to me that in her culture (Persian) it is customary to greet people in this matter and apologized for any discomfort she may have caused me. I still see her from time to time at different work functions and she has continued to respect my need for my personal space.


“Chronemics is the study of the use of time” (pg. 119). The text went onto describe how Western culture values time because “time is money” (pg. 119). I agree with the Western views on time and time management, because I think that time is valuable and it is something that you cannot get back once it is lost. In comparison to other cultures, I think part of the reason for our emphasis on time is the fact that we live in an individualistic culture, whereas collectivist cultures (e.g., Asian, Hispanic) are family focused and are less time bound. In addition, collectivst cultures aren't driven on the idea that a minute lost is equivalent to a dollar being lost. While being on time is important for most business related situations, it is not of the utmost importance in other areas of your life.

1 comment:

  1. Hey GCL

    I think our views on proxemics are quite similar. I really value my personal space as well, and do not like being touched or getting close, especially if I do not know you. However when someone does it for the first time meeting you, it is awkward to address that to them. Therefore if it becomes continual I tell them as well.

    In your experience with the Persian lady hugging and kissing you on the cheek, I know exactly how you felt. I addressed some of the very same actions in my encounter with a Nigerian classmate. He as well hugged and kissed me on my cheek upon meeting him for the first time. Though I was uncomfortable at first, I tried to be more understanding after he explained to me that this was a norm in his culture.

    ReplyDelete