Describe the four spatial norms observed in North America, and explain how these can affect our interactions with people from other cultures

What will be an ideal response?

ANSWER: Answer will include the description of the following four spatial norms: (1) Intimate distance. For the majority of people, the most private and exclusive space extends about 18 inches out from the skin. Entry within this space (face-to-face) is reserved for special people or special circumstances, such as cuddling, comforting others, etc.
(2) Personal distance. This is the distance maintained in comfortable interactions with friends and extends from about 18 inches to four feet from the body. (3) Social distance is used for impersonal business and casual social gatherings and is in a range of about four to 12 feet. This distance eliminates most touching, and it formalizes conversations by requiring greater voice projection. (4) Public distance is the distance at which formal interactions occur from about 12 feet or more from the body. When people are separated by more than 12 feet, they look "flat"and must raise their voices to speak to one another. Formal speeches, lectures, business meetings, and the like are conducted at public distances. When two people of different nationalities have different norms for personal space, both are likely to be uncomfortable when talking, as one tries to move closer and the other keeps moving back. This can lead to misunderstandings in which one person feels that the other is being too familiar, while the other feels rejected.