Different societies have their way of communicating verbally. The four distances in communication mainly apply to people who understand the modern communication methods. Proximity is different when it comes to culture.
Tom is my brother. When we talk, we move closer to each other. During the test, I kept a distance of about 10 feet. He tried to get closer to me so that he could be comfortable during our discussion. I moved further away. He stopped concentrating on the story I was telling him and asked what was going on with me. He then said that he was leaving to give me space to think. Before he left, I informed him that it was a test I was carrying out and he was outraged that I did not tell him in advance.
Rose is my teacher. During the trial, I moved closer to her at less than an elbow’s length to ask for my exercise book. She moved back, and I followed her. She moved again, and I stepped closer to her. She was uncomfortable and asked if I was okay. I did not explain until I was about to leave. She understood but told me that I should have informed her first.
Charles is a neighbor, but we do not talk much. I met him at the entrance to his home and greeted him. He was surprised and kept distance. I moved closer and continued asking him some questions. He was so uncomfortable that he excused himself and left. I could not even explain the purpose of the conversation.