Proxemics is the study of which concept?

• A. Nonverbal cues such as facial expressions
• B. Personal space and the distance between individuals
• C. Verbal communication styles
• D. Cultural stereotypes in therapy

Answer: (B)

Proxemics focuses on how people use space in social interactions—the personal space and physical distance between individuals. In counseling, this helps you read a client’s comfort level, boundaries, and cultural norms, and to adjust seating or proximity to support rapport and safety. For example, some clients from certain cultures prefer more distance, while others are comfortable closer; changes in distance during a session can signal anxiety, resistance, or growing trust. This is distinct from nonverbal cues like facial expressions or from verbal communication styles or biases about culture.