What is Personal Space in the U.S.?

Personal space can also be defined as a person’s “comfort zone.” It is the space around you that others are off-limits to. Personal space varies per culture. For instance, in France people typically do not require much personal space. In the United States, however, it seems to be about two feet. This is what is known as the ‘two feet policy’. Invade that two-foot space perimeter around someone, and you will usually receive feedback. Some factors to take into consideration regarding personal space include:

Type of Relationship:
One factor of personal space involves how well you know the other person. The more intimate the relationship, the less personal space is involved. If it is someone you are already close to, then personal space is not an issue. You like touching the person. You like being physically close to the person. This is common in a close, personal relationship.

On the other hand, if the other person is someone you do not know well, you want him or her to keep his or her distance. You do not want them to whisper into your ear. And, if the person is someone you do not like, the room just is not large enough for the two of you. Right? That is personal space.

Work relationships typically involve the standard two-foot policy. This both looks more professional and is commonplace.

Personal space is usually not mentioned in a conversation. Unless someone exclaims, “Get out of my face!” very rarely will someone mention that his or her personal space is being invaded. Therefore, this is usually picked up by many nonverbal cues. Some of the nonverbal ways to signify personal space include:

Eyes: Invade someone’s personal space and you will be greeted with darting eyes. You may receive sharp, piercing glares. Or, a surprised look may be received.

Lips: Tight, pursed lips are a common reaction to someone invading another’s personal space.

Movement: Invade another’s personal space and notice how the invaded takes a step back. They are trying to maintain their two-foot perimeter.

Body posture: Arms crossed, legs crossed, erect posture all signify closing one’s self off from others. These are all common reactions to an invasion of personal space. The same can be said of turning your entire body away from the person (like leaning away).

Head gestures: Turning one’s head either away or back is a way of dealing with the invasion of personal space.

Personal space is an issue that has drawn much attention. There are volumes of studies, literature, and speaking engagements with this as the topic. It is a fascinating topic, indeed.

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