interpersonal distance

the physical distance that individuals choose to maintain between themselves and others while interacting. Studies show that most individuals maintain a smaller interpersonal distance for friends than for strangers. The comfortable or optimal distance also varies with the type of interaction and setting as well as with differences in nationality, culture, personality, and other characteristics. See body buffer zone; bubble concept of personal space. See also proxemics.

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Psychology term of the day

January 11th 2025

performance review

a formal appraisal of an employee’s job performance, typically conducted by his or her supervisor at least once a year. The review may be in the form of a quantitative rating or a more subjective appraisal and usually involves feedback to the employee. Also called performance appraisal; performance assessment; performance evaluation. See also employee evaluation; evaluation interview; job criterion.