“The way we structure and use and are affected by space constitutes proxemity.” (Harris/Sherblom 117) There is an example in the book that describes proxemics as “the invisible boundary that individuals draw around themselves.” (Harris/Sherblom 117) This boundary is dependant upon circumstances surrounding the individuals. Chronemics on the other hand, “is the study of the use of time.” (Harris/Sherblom 119) “The manipulation of time is an important dynamic in small group interactions.” (Harris/Sherblom 119) Around the globe, many people have their own ideas and essentials surrounding time. Therefore in order to be as effective as possible, you should learn how each group that you interact with, values time.
Unfortunately I have not been outside of the United States, so I do not know from first hand how other countries differ from us in terms of proxemics. However, I have a friend who is Nigerian, and I experience different uses of proxemics than I ever have out here. When I first met him, we were in a classroom and he said “nice to meet you” and kissed me on my cheek. I was a little uncomfortable because I thought he was trying to hit on me. I later talked to him about this meet and he explained to me that he was new to the United States at the time and that in Nigeria, men treated women with respect by kissing them on their cheeks. It is a form of a handshake. I do not know if it is like this all throughout that country but I thought that was very interesting.
As far as proxemics goes, I believe everyone in this country can relate to the saying “time is money”. We in the United States always emphasize the importance of promptness. However I believe that on most of our days off from work or class, we all like to sleep in and relax. I have an Indian coworker who would wake up very early in the morning no matter what. I used to ask him why he woke up early if he did not have to. He then explained to me that in his culture, sleeping in is a sign of laziness. They believe that even if you are not required to do anything, you should get up and either work or study to better yourself. Although I commend them for that, I do not see myself doing that as I enjoy a day of relaxation after a week of school and work. I guess America did that to me.
Very interesting post! I think it is interesting how though you have not been outside of the U.S you still experiences of people with different cultures have. While living outside of the country, I was surprised how bored I was by the fact that everywhere I went everyone was the same and a there was not much variation in how people behaved or thought. In Mexico, they also use kissing on the cheek as a form of handshake and it is an interesting difference because here in the U.S it is considered an invasion of space. I did not know that in Nigeria they also used this type of greeting. I enjoyed reading your post.
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