Abstract
Interpersonal sensitivity (IS), also known as emotional maturity or empathy,
is characterized by recognizing emotions and displaying empathy, which
are important social skills. Understanding the factors that are associated
with interpersonal sensitivity can provide the foundation for research
revolving around improving interpersonal sensitivity, and in turn,
improving social skills. Platonic physical affection (PPA), such as holding
hands and hugging, is a social variable often associated with those close to
one another (e.g., friends and family). However, the exhibition and
receptivity to this social variable may differ across cultures and genders.
This study aimed to see if there is a relationship between self-reported PPA
and interpersonal sensitivity. In addition, it investigated whether gender
affects this relationship and whether reported levels of PPA differ between
children and adults. The study design included collecting survey response
data measuring gender and perceived scores of childhood and adulthood
PPA levels and receptivity, and interpersonal sensitivity. Results indicated
that there was no statistically significant relationship between interpersonal
sensitivity and PPA, and this didn’t change across genders. For a difference
between reported levels of childhood and adulthood PPA scores, analysis
with all genders indicated no statistically significant relationship, but a
statistically significant relationship existed with male responses, in the
positive direction, indicating that those who noted having more childhood
PPA also had more adulthood PPA. Exploratory analysis also demonstrated
that lower reported cultural receptivity to PPA indicated lower PPA scores,
suggesting culture has a greater impact on receptivity to PPA in comparison
to familial or societal expectations.
Recommended Citation
Malik, Mariam
()
"The Relationship between Gender, Platonic Physical Affection, and Interpersonal Sensitivity,"
McNair Research Journal SJSU: Vol. 22
, Article 4.
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/mcnair/vol22/iss1/4