We all speak the language of touch, even if we aren't aware of it. In fact, only about 7% of communication is verbal, while up to 55% is delivered through nonverbal behavior (including tactile methods).
Regardless of intent, the simple act of touching elicits emotion. It can be innocent, like holding a loved one, or accidental, like a stranger accidentally bumping our arm on the subway, or deceptive, with malicious intent.
While there has been extensive research on verbal communication, nonverbal research on tactile communication is in its infancy. Current research indicates that compassion is communicated cross-culturally through touch, but research also shows that touch can be used for dominance, persuasion, and causing harm.
To make matters even more complicated, touch differs across cultures, with one gesture being appropriate and positive in one culture but disrespectful in another. As a result, it's critical to learn more about what happens when we touch each other to talk, especially at work.
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