PERSONAL SPACE DIFFERENCES
I believe the concept of
space is a very essential concept for all living creatures. If we think about
it everything relates to the space we take in this universe. We all see it differently according to how we
have been raised and how we have been using it with those around us. In a
molecular perspective even among atoms. Some atoms "personal space"
is different depending what element they are around with. If it is not bondable
it can be very reactive.
The same goes with people. We need personal space or personal
closeness depending on who we are with and how our personal emotional space is as
well. I grew up in a culture where houses are so close to one another, but it
was expected to keep a respectful space on noise and cleanness with those you
live near to. I remember as a kid we had the chore to sweep the sidewalk right
outside our home. Often the neighbor would sweep all the way to our section,
and we never saw that as intrusive but rather as a sign of kindness. But as I
think about it, I see that it was because my parents had a good relationship
with the neighbor and they knew each other well enough to know that it would it
be intrusive or offensive if they swept our side of the side walk.
The reading about the Indians and Americans made me ponder on how
American culture has become very entitle to things even to those things that cannot
be possess like the air we breathe. This may be a silly example, but it was
what it came to mind. When my children were little personal space was always a
motive for contention, especially in the car for long rides. When we are in the
car personal space becomes very limited and soon enough there were complains
like "mom, he is touching me!" or "mom, he is breathing my
air!"
In a classroom, I believe we need to be respectful of physical
personal space. Not everyone is a hugger. We should learn how our students feel
comfortable greeting. But I hope that we go beyond the physical and think of
the emotional personal space. Are we providing a safe and comfortable place for
students to learn free of judgement and stress? Are we aware of those that are
anxious or sad? What can we do to provide healthy boundaries among the
students?
Hi Maribel! The idea of establishing boundaries between students within which they feel safe is important. I also feel it is important for them to understand that such boundaries are nothing more than a result of each person's culture, and not as a result of an act of belittling or disliking.
ReplyDeleteBy Valeria Moreno