Tactile communication

Tactile communication is one of the elements of non-verbal communication, where the main element is touch. Tactile behavior is one of the basic forms of communication and an involvement of personal communication with another person.

It is a very important mechanism and vehicle in interpersonal relations. It can be associated with a wide range of associations such as :

• aggression
• sexuality
• psychical coercion

The type of touch between people in interpersonal relationships is a sign of their acceptance and closeness to each other. They can be diametrically different as a result of knowing another person, among other things, like heir age, relationship, sense of threat, lack of trust. As an example, the relationship in the company(when it comes to tactile communication) between the employers and employees can be much more different than the relationship between employees. Type of touch and its intensity is a kind of agreement between both sides.

Examples of tactile communication influences

Tactile communication can accompany us in many areas of our lives and have a direct impact on our qualities and abilities. Physical touch has a significant impact on our behavior in everyday life, for example:

• improve of trust in each other
• willingness to cooperate
• better teamwork

It can also be a stress-relieving factor, improving our mood and diametrically increasing our productiveness. Touch can also be used to increase the sense of security and reducing feeling of threat.

The research also proves that the form of non-verbal communication that is tactile communication has a big impact on our behaviour as consumers. It has been observed that touch can provide a certain stimulus, which will be a certain indicator of our choices as a consumer. It is perceived as something good and strengthens positive feelings.

Barriers to tactile communication

Tactile communication is a very sensual and intimate form of communication, which can vary greatly in different regions of the world as well as in business relations. The same forms of touch can mean completely different things in other countries in the world and can be perceived in a different way, which can be unpredictable for us.

As an example we can use the interpersonal relations in Japan, which are different from our commonly known ones. In their youth, the Japanese have a lot of physical contact with their parents, which disappears in later years. When they're grown-ups they attach great importance to every form of touch.That is why, in business relations with the Japanese you must take special care by dealing with them. Pay attention first of all to avoid kissing. For a very long time the Japanese didn't know how to make a greeting with a handshake. Only for some time now this form of greeting has become popular in Japan.

Advantages of Tactile communication

Tactile communication is a powerful form of non-verbal communication that can be used to demonstrate trust, respect and understanding. Here are some of the advantages of tactile communication:

• It can help to build relationships, as it is a physical way of expressing emotions. It can bridge the gap between people, allowing them to create a deeper level of trust.
• It is beneficial for those who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. It can be used to give comfort and support, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• It can be used to show appreciation, such as a pat on the back or a hug.
• It can create a sense of security and belonging, as it is a physical expression of love, affection and care.
• It can be used to show respect and politeness. A handshake or an embrace can be used to show mutual respect and understanding.

Limitations of Tactile communication

Tactile communication can be an effective form of communication, but it has its limitations. These include:

• Unwanted physical contact: Tactile communication can be interpreted as uncomfortable or intrusive if someone does not want to be touched.
• Cultural differences: Different cultures have different interpretations of appropriate touch and physical contact, which can make it difficult to communicate effectively with people of different cultures.
• Inappropriate messages: Touch can sometimes be interpreted as a sign of aggression or sexual interest, which can be misinterpreted or misinterpreted.
• Lack of control: Touch can be difficult to control or regulate, as it is often an unconscious behavior.

Other approaches related to Tactile communication

Tactile communication is one of the elements of non-verbal communication, where the main element is touch. It is a powerful way to convey feelings, thoughts and emotions. Other approaches related to tactile communication include:

• Physical contact: Physical contact is a form of tactile communication that involves physical contact with another person. This can include hugging, holding hands, kissing, and other forms of physical contact. It can be used to express love, comfort, support, and other emotions.
• Body language: Body language is another form of tactile communication. It involves the use of facial expressions, gestures, posture, and other nonverbal cues to communicate. Body language can be used to express emotions, thoughts, and feelings.
• Haptics: Haptics is a form of tactile communication that involves the use of touch and force to communicate. It is used to convey emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Haptics can be used to express empathy and comfort.

In summary, tactile communication is a powerful way to convey feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Other approaches related to tactile communication include physical contact, body language, and haptics. Each of these approaches can be used to express emotions, thoughts, and feelings.

Footnotes

Tactile communication — recommended articles

Business etiquette — Social bond — Complementary relationships — Stereotypes in advertising — Need — Barriers to communication — Acquired needs theory — Ethnic tourism — Social identity theory

References

• Chang A., O’Modhrain S., Jacob R., Gunther E., Ishii H., (2002), ComTouch: Design of a Vibrotactile Communication Device, p. 2
• Classen C., (2005), The book of touch, Berg, p. 18-23
• Hornik J., (1992), Tactile Stimulation and Consumer Response, Journal of Consumer Research, p 449-457
• Knapp M., Hall J., (2013), Nonverbal Communication in HumanInteraction 8 th Edition, Cengage Learning, p.
• Kraus M., Huang C., Keltner D., (2010),Tactile Communication, Cooperation, and Performance: An Ethological Study of the NBA, American Psychological Association, p.745-746
• Nishiyama K., (2000), Doing Business With Japan: Successful Strategies for Intercultural Communication, University of Hawai Press, p. 26-28

Author: Maciej Plęskowski