Haptics in nonverbal communication is the study of physical touch. Touch is defined as communication including handshakes, kissing (cheek, lips, hand), “high-five,” shoulder pat, brushing arm, etc. Each of these give off nonverbal messages as to the touching person’s intentions/feelings. Nowadays, physical touch is usually frowned upon in an effort to be sensitive to people’s personal space. Here are a few tips around touch:

• Touchers are perceived as more dominant than the recipient.
• Initiation of touch signals the controlling member of a group.
• Higher status people more frequently touch lower status people.
• Be wary of what touch is and is not professional in your work environment.