ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on haptics, to describe the many forms, manifestations, uses, and results of touch. Touch is the most basic, natural, and powerful of nonverbal messages. It is affected by self-regulation practices adopted out of fear and an abundance of caution. There are numerous types of touches or tie signs - a touch signaling that some kind of relationship exists between the person touching and the person being touched. Touch can also be controlling or directive. It can signal a desire for closeness and more intimacy, or for distance. Culture also influences ritual behaviors involving touch. Gender similarly influences touching practices. Females are perceived to be more touchable. Power and status play roles in influencing touching behavior as well. Touching is related to who is on the doing and receiving end of physical contact. Worse is touching in a professional or personal relationship that deteriorates into sexual harassment or sexual assault; both are always unacceptable.
