Race, setting, and actor-target differences in personal space

In this study we examine the effects of race, setting, and type of approach upon interpersonal distance preferences among black and white female under-graduate students. Participants were tested 2 at a time in same-race pairs, using both direct and indirect measures in corner and center settings as each participant approached and was approached by her partner. Direct measures showed interpersonal distance to be greater in the corner than in the center setting and greater when participants were approached by than when approaching their partner, but there was no significant effect for race of participant. Indirect measures showed no effects. Interactions showed the effects of type of approach depended to some extent upon both race and setting.