According to the free dictionary proxemics is; the study of the cultural, behavioural, and sociological aspects of spatial distances between individuals.
I learnt this word in my first year of campus, and I was so glad it was something that was rattling around in my brain that I had no way of describing and now I had finally found a word for it.
Proxemics, a lot of people I have encountered in life have no concept of it. They don’t adhere to the ‘acceptable’ space that is required by the human race and maybe even aliens (you never know).
It really is such a simple thing that affects me so much in my daily life, space. That’s all I want space; personal space. And some people just don’t respect or understand the concept.
My personal space is usually invaded in public spaces and by total strangers. What is it about me that a complete stranger feels that it is okay for them to graze their genitals on any part of my body? Or to sit so close to me that I can smell their breath? Or stand so close to me that I can hear their heart beating?
Ask anyone you know about the space (or lack thereof) they are afforded in lines at the bank especially, at the supermarket and any other place you’re required to line up. I understand that one can be in a hurry but standing so close to me that I feel like I should introduce you to my parents (since we know each other biblically) won’t make the cashier or teller move any faster, why must you ruin my day in the process? Most people will tell you that they have met (yes met) people at the bank or in a bus or at the supermarket who have no concept whatsoever or what personal space is at all. People who leave you feeling accosted, a little violated and feeling like you need to take a shower.
Is it that people just don’t care or do they really have no concept what personal space is and why it should be respected? Is it a cultural thing? Am I over reacting?
I think the government need to offer classes on the concept of proxemics and personal space to the general public; I will even offer to teach it at no charge.
This post was written by Laura Muka. Checkout her blog v3rcity