Show:
Coping & Communication
Personal Space
True or False
Porous, Rigid, or Healthy?
It's All Relative
100

When someone tells you a joke that offends you.

Calmly let them know; Respond with a non-offensive joke

100
What is a good way to cope with or handle someone else if they are unknowingly invading our personal space?

There are a number of appropriate ways, depending on the situation. Some examples are: Politely saying, "excuse me" or "That makes me uncomfortable" or walking away from the area.

100

When an acquaintance is being friendly, it is appropriate to respond by intimately touching them.

False

100

Oversharing personal information

Porous

100

Those who may occupy intimate space

Family, close friends, intimate partners, pets; or those you have a close relationship with; given permission to do so

200

When someone becomes verbally hostile with you (e.g. yelling, screaming, swearing)

Remain calm; Respond "I hear you," "I see you're upset, let's talk so I can understand better;" Walk away

More examples?

200

What is considered "intimate space?"

"Intimate space" extends outward from our bodies approximately 18 inches.

200

It is generally okay to embrace strangers, acquaintances, and those we have a professional relationship with, without their permission. 

False. 

200

Does not compromise personal values for others

Healthy

200

Those who occupy personal space

Friends and acquaintances

300

When an acquaintance provides you with too much information about their intimate life

Let them know you are uncomfortable with the topic, prefer to keep such information personal; change the subject

300

Within what distance are you in another's "personal space?"

"Personal space" extends from 1.5 to 4 feet away. 

(LiveScience)

300

You may be crossing a boundary by telling an offensive joke to a general audience or those you are NOT in a close relationship with. 

True. If you are uncertain how those around you feel about a certain topic, what you say could be hurtful, traumatic or offensive. 

300

Accepts abuse and disrespect from others

Porous

300

Someone who may enter your intimate or personal space in a professional manner or when necessary for your well being

Medical professionals, therapists, caretakers (with permission or in an emergency situation)

400

When the neighbors are too noisy

This is when having previously established a good relationship with your neighbors comes in handy... Engage in polite conversation 

400

Who should occupy our "intimate space?"

This depends on the individual. Typically, people are comfortable with significant others (spouses or partners), close friends, family, and pets in this space. Generally, people become uncomfortable when others outside of these relationships linger in their "intimate space."
400

It is okay if a close personal friend refuses a hug

True

400

Avoids intimacy and close relationships

Rigid

400

Who may enter your intimate or personal space, with your permission, but does not want intimate contact in return? 

Medical professionals, therapists, and caretakers

500

A close relative asks for a favor you are unable or unwilling to give

"No." 

A firm "NO" with or WITHOUT explanation is okay.

500

What part of the brain is activated when you invade people's personal space?

The amygdala (a.k.a. the "lizard brain"), which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. 

500

Being over-involved with other's personal problems is an example of having porous (loose) boundaries

True

500

Accepts when others say "no" to them

Healthy

500

What type of relationship is it appropriate for someone to touch you in an intimate manner without your consent? 

No relationship