Journal
4
This week was interesting learning about the
expectancy violation theory. I never
knew that theory existed before these chapters.
I just assumed that if someone breaks the social norm, it is normal to
react the way we do. To put a name on it
and explain why we do what we do is very fascinating to me. Understanding our behaviors is an interesting
concept to me. I watched more people this week than normal to see how they
reacted in situations.
In one situation I was at Smiths getting groceries,
when an elderly lady asked for help with something. Without questions another customer did what
she asked. The elderly lady touched the
persons hand to show appreciation. The
person whose hand was touched, I swear you would have thought was holding a hot
iron in their hand. They pulled their
hand back so quick it was incredible.
The elderly lady looked confused, hurt and a little distraught by their
reactions.
When reading this last section I learned that some
of the influences played in proxemics are related to culture, gender, age
etc. This is where the age came into
play. I notice that when I do something for some one that is elderly, they have
a tendency to use more physical touch to show their gratitude and appreciation
for your help. For me this is fine, I
accept it at face value and validate what they are giving.
I was interested in the violations theory as well. its amazing that everything we do has some motive behind it, whether it be unconscious or not. In regards to proxemics, I do notice similar things with elderly people. Its fascinating to see how each theory and concept applies to everyday situations.
ReplyDeleteI love how the elderly just want to have a physical connection with everyone. I think the older we get, the more love we have for others. I was talking with a friend who lived in Serbia recently, and she told me about how people really do hold hands when the talk to you. Whether it's the first time they have met you or the hundredth time.
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