What do we refer to as the personal boundary we like to maintain around our bodies?

Personal space refers to the physical and emotional boundaries individuals prefer to maintain to feel comfortable in social situations. It is the invisible "bubble" that surrounds a person and can vary greatly depending on cultural norms, the context of the interaction, and the personal preferences of the individual. When someone invades another person's personal space, it can lead to feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or even aggression, as individuals typically need an appropriate distance to feel secure and in control.

This concept is essential in understanding interpersonal relationships and social behavior, as it highlights how individuals navigate physical proximity in social interactions. Different situations may call for varying amounts of personal space; for instance, engaging in casual conversation with a friend may allow for closer proximity, whereas a formal meeting may necessitate more distance to maintain professionalism and comfort.

The other terms in the question relate to different aspects of social psychology. Deindividuation refers to a psychological state where individuals in a group lose self-awareness and feel less accountable for their actions, typically leading to behaviors that they would not engage in alone. Groupthink describes a phenomenon where a group prioritizes consensus over critical thinking, often resulting in irrational decision-making. Social loafing is a tendency for individuals in a group to exert less effort than they would when working