Do we like someone more if they stand closer to us? Imagine we are the only person in an elevator when the door opens and someone walks in and stands right next to us. Uncomfortable is likely an understatement to describe how we would feel. But are there other circumstances in which a stranger can get that close to us and elicit not alarm bells of warning, but feelings of warmth? According to research, the answer is yes. In today’s world, we are mindful of social distance expectations , whether cultural, social, or preventive post-pandemic. We are also aware of personal boundaries , and the reality that different people have different comfort zones, and do not appreciate “space invaders.” Yet in some situations, it appears that proximity can have a positive effect on first impressions, quality of interaction, and even generosity . Research demonstrates that closer physical distance increases compliance with a request from a stranger on the street. Many of us are familiar
A Compendium of Concepts