The text discusses various aspects of body language, communication, and cultural differences. It highlights the importance of understanding and respecting cultural norms in body language, such as the duration and direction of eye contact, the appropriateness of handshakes, and the personal space that individuals prefer. The text also explores the psychological aspects of these behaviors, such as how pacing can help calm down, how touching can be a form of communication, and how verbal tics can be a way of creating psychological comfort. It also discusses the concept of "manspreading", which refers to the habit of spreading one's legs to occupy more space than is typically considered appropriate. The text concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting individual preferences in these areas.
1. The duration of acceptable staring varies between cultures. In New York City, it's allowed to stare at each other for about 1.28 seconds, while in the Middle East, it may extend to anywhere from four to six seconds.
2. In a business setting, it's recommended to look at the triangle between the eyes down to the mouth, while in a social setting, it's acceptable to look down to below the chin. However, in a business setting, it's not permitted to look as low as the breast area.
3. Pacing is a behavior that can help calm down under stress. It involves moving back and forth, which stimulates the gastroc muscles of the legs, also known as the second heart.
4. The perfect handshake involves fingers down, squeezing at the same level as the other person, and a quick shake.
5. Spatial needs can vary between individuals and cultures. For example, New Yorkers tend to stand closer to each other than people from the Midwest.
6. Some people have a habit of touching others, such as touching an arm or shoulder while talking. This can be uncomfortable for some people.
7. The area around a person's hips, plus about one to two inches on each side, is considered the person's space by social convention.
8. Verbal tics, such as clearing the throat, can be a sign of discomfort or difficulty in expressing something.
9. Rolling your eyes can show contempt and disdain.
10. Repetitive behaviors like finger tapping, pencil tapping, or leg bouncing can help us pass the time and deal with situations where things have slowed down.
11. Our species is very complex, and we have preferences for the most minute of things. When we see something outside that envelope of preference, it becomes an irritant, which can be both social, cultural, and personal.