This module is focused on the power of touch. Touch is
the first thing of our human senses to be developed. When we come into this
world as babies, touch is all we have. We can’t talk, interpret exact words but
we can feel emotions through touch by our caregivers. Touch is a powerful thing
throughout our whole lives. It stuck out to me that each individual has a
different belief about touch. This is so true, I know so many people who do not
like touch and cringe when someone goes to give them a hug. Comfort levels are
critical. I really enjoyed learning about the different types of touch which
are professional/functional, social/polite, and friendship/warmth,
love/intimacy, and sexual arousal. I understand how important each type is in
daily interactions.
The
book’s section about arm withdrawal was the most interesting to me. When an
individual feels upset, fearful, abused, worried, etc, they withdrawal their
arms. This withdrawal is a survival tactic that helps protect the individual
when a real or perceived danger is sensed. A couple of days ago, I got worried
about my siblings. I found myself folding my arms and staring at their
perceived danger. I started to watch people's arms and it showed me so much on how they were communicating!
I think it is very interesting that some people grow up with different ideas of what style of touch is acceptable. Culture plays a big role and its awesome that we have many different cultures in the U.S. to observe.
ReplyDeleteBeing the touchy person that I am, I enjoyed this section. I agree with what you said about it being the first of our senses to really be developed. I wish the culture we currently live in was more open to touch and affection. I believe in the healing power of a simple hug.
ReplyDeleteI too enjoyed this section to learn about this week. I am not a touchy type person but it reminded me of how a hug, a handshake, or pat on the back sometimes changes a persons attitude and makes them feel better. When reading about this subject I thought about the episode on the office where Kevin Malone wants to asks out Lynn, this girl he met at the Valentine's Day party but wasn't sure how to show emotion by using the power of touch to show he liked her. So Jim, Pam, and Andy told and showed him what to do.
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