In a world that is increasingly dominated by screens and digital interactions, the importance of human touch cannot be emphasised enough. It is not just a physical sensation; it is a vital aspect of our social and emotional wellbeing. Touch has multiple benefits, ranging from triggering the release of oxytocin, which is also known as the love hormone, to encouraging communication and reducing stress.
The context
Touch is a form of communication that can be categorised in different ways, revealing its various roles in human interaction. It serves a range of functions from conveying affection and support to facilitating playful exchanges or formal greetings. The intensity and duration of touch also shape its impact, with brief gestures like handshakes contrasting with prolonged embraces or deep massages.
Cultural norms play a significant role in defining the appropriateness of touch and its meaning, emphasising the importance of understanding cultural context in interpreting tactile interactions. Ultimately, touch is a complex and nuanced language through which we express emotions, build connections, and navigate social dynamics, emphasising its central role in human communication and relationships.
Understanding the impact of touch greatly depends on its context. Whether it’s a comforting hug from a loved one or an accidental brush from a stranger in a crowded space, the context in which touch occurs notably influences its significance and effect. Furthermore, cultural norms play a crucial role in shaping our perceptions of appropriate touch, with variations across societies dictating what gestures are deemed acceptable or taboo. It is important to recognise the nuances of context and cultural expectations surrounding touch to interpret its meaning accurately and navigate interpersonal interactions respectfully and sensitively.
Physiological and psychological effects
The effects of physical touch on the body are significant. Studies have demonstrated that small gestures such as hugs, pats on the back, or handshakes can lead to the production of oxytocin, which encourages feelings of trust and connection while reducing stress. Additionally, touch has been associated with reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels, providing relief for both stress and pain.
Touch is not only a physical sense but also a powerful communication tool. It can convey empathy, encouragement, and comfort without saying a word. A simple touch on the shoulder or a gentle squeeze can speak volumes and express emotions more effectively than words. Moreover, touch therapy techniques like massage and acupuncture are used as complementary approaches to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What do the infant monkeys tell us?
Harry Harlow’s landmark experiments with infant monkeys emphasised the importance of touch and comfort in social and emotional development. In his seminal experiment, infant rhesus monkeys were separated from their biological mothers shortly after birth and introduced to two surrogate mothers – one made of bare wire mesh with a bottle for food and the other covered in soft terry cloth but offering no nourishment. Despite the wire mother providing sustenance, the infant monkeys consistently preferred spending time clinging to the cloth mother, using her for comfort and security.
This experiment illustrated the crucial role of contact comfort in healthy emotional and social development, challenging previous notions that attachment was solely based on nourishment. Touch deprivation can have severe consequences, as demonstrated by Harlow’s work, highlighting the importance of touch throughout life.
Despite ethical concerns, Harlow’s work has had a significant impact on child-rearing practices. It helped promote practices like skin-to-skin contact between newborns and mothers (kangaroo care) and responsive parenting that emphasises emotional and physical connection.
Cultural attitudes
Attitudes towards touch vary significantly between different cultures. In Latin America and the Middle East, it is common to touch frequently as a way of expressing warmth and building rapport. However, in cultures like Japan or China, personal space is highly valued, and touch is reserved for more intimate relationships or formal situations. In Sri Lanka, some of us still greet each other by saying “ayubowan” while putting our hands together in front of us.
Being sensitive and aware of these cultural differences is important when interacting with people from different backgrounds. Understanding nuances such as appropriate types of touch, gender and age dynamics, and contextual appropriateness is crucial for respectful social interactions.
Power of observation
Understanding the context of touch in a new cultural environment is crucial to navigating social interactions respectfully and effectively. One can gain valuable insights into the norms and expectations surrounding physical closeness and touch within that culture by taking the time to observe how people interact. Paying attention to subtle cues like body language, gestures, and personal space boundaries can provide invaluable clues about the appropriate level of physical contact in different situations. For instance, in some cultures, individuals may greet each other with a warm embrace, while in others, a simple handshake or nod may suffice.
Observing the behaviours of people around us can help us adjust our own behaviour accordingly, making sure that we act in a way that aligns with the cultural context and is received positively by others. This approach not only fosters mutual respect and understanding but also helps to avoid misunderstandings and discomfort. Ultimately, taking the time to observe and understand the context of touch in a new cultural setting shows a genuine willingness to engage with and respect the customs and traditions of others.
The power of self-touch
Self-touch is a simple yet powerful practice that is often overlooked. Engaging in acts such as self-hugs, gentle shoulder squeezes, or applying lotion with mindful touch can have profound benefits for our wellbeing. These gestures can foster self-compassion, reduce stress, and provide physical comfort while conveying a sense of care and nurturing towards ourselves. By intentionally connecting with our own bodies through touch, we can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience, ultimately enhancing our overall emotional and mental health.
Intolerance to touch
Some people may feel uncomfortable or averse to certain types of touch, such as rough textures or sudden pats. While this may not be a significant concern for some, severe intolerance to touch can lead to anxiety, social withdrawal, or difficulties in forming close relationships, indicating an underlying condition. Touch aversion can be caused by sensory processing disorder (SPD), anxiety disorders, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. Seeking help from a therapist or counsellor is recommended if touch intolerance affects daily life, relationships, or causes significant distress.
(The writer is a mental health professional and has, over the past 11 years, contributed to several Sri Lankan media publications in both English and Sinhala languages, focusing on topics related to psychology and counselling)