Haptics

Haptic communication is a branch of nonverbal communication that refers to the ways in which people and animals communicate and interact via the sense of touch. Touch is the most sophisticated and intimate of the five senses. Touch or haptics, from the ancient Greek word haptikos is extremely important for communication; it is vital for survival.

Haptics is a form of non- verbal communication using a sense of touch. Professional Some jobs require that the other person is touched in some way, very typically by people in the medical profession or other caring jobs. Punishment Touch can be negative as well as positive and a slap or a punch sends a very strong message (that may well get the message sender into very deep trouble!). Greeting Touching is a common part of many greeting rituals, from shaking hands to cheek-kissing to full-body hugs. Such communication is highly ritualized and can contain subtle symbolism. For example clasping the other person for a fraction of a second longer than normal can send such different signals as affection and domination. Guiding When a person is physically moving, a touch on the body, usually the back, shoulder or arm can guide them in the right direction. Gaining attention When you touch another person who is talking or otherwise engaged elsewhere, they are very likely to turn their attention to you. Touching here is very much in safe areas, such as the arm or shoulder. Saying their name at the same time reinforces strongly this move. Sympathy When we are distressed, we will often appreciate the touch of another as a parent, providing physical comfort. The degree of touch in such circumstances varies greatly with the relationship, ranging from a gentle touch on the arm to an arm around the shoulder to a full-body hug. Friendship Touching is often a part of friendship and demonstrates closeness. Friends will walk close together and occasionally bump into one another. They will touch more during greeting and may spontaneously touch one another during communication.