Closeness and Physical Contact in Russia

Closeness and physical contact with other people is much more common in Russia than in the West. Russians’ personal distance is very close. It is true for people waiting in line, eating in a restaurant or sitting on park benches (Dabars 2002:58). Accustomed to close physical contact, Russian men as well as women touch when talking (Richmond 2003:19). Public display of affection between a male and a female is common. On the street, couples may stroll arm in arm. People shake hands readily. Upon meeting an acquaintance, especially one they have not seen for a while, some Russians are likely to embrace and kiss the person on the cheek. Men do not shake hands with women unless she extends hers first. Sometimes their hands are kissed rather than shaken (Richmond 2003:120). Men, however, limit their same-gender greetings to a handshake or a clap on the shoulder. Sharing of space and touching are considered positive values. Russians are also in the habit of looking directly and unblinkingly at the person they are addressing (Visson 1998:138).