The reason why this happens is referred to as the proximity principle in psychology.
It describes the way relationships are formed between things close to one another.
It explains why physical closenessor even the perception of closenessplays a big part in our interpersonal relationships.
Oliver Rossi / Getty Images
These were dubbed Gestalt principles because Gestalt means “shape” in German.
Examples of the Proximity Principle
Consider this article.
The words are organized into sentences, which are then organized into paragraphs.
As a result, you see each paragraph as an individual group.
Organizing the sentences based on proximity overrides any instinct to organize the sentences based on similar colors.
Yet, it can also lead to misperception.
In two dimensions, they visually appear to form a single entity.
This is a much-studied phenomenon insocial psychology.
While friendship was also shown to be dependent on physical proximity, friendships required frequent face-to-face contact to thrive.
In contrast, disliking thrived even if those who lived in close proximity rarely saw one another in person.
Downsides of the Proximity Principle
The proximity principle can often have a positive effect on our lives.
In our social relationships, it helps promote harmony, cooperation, and closeness in groups.
But it can also have a few potential downsides.
Sometimes, it can prevent us from forming connections with a more diverse group of people.
This can result in stereotyping and intolerance of those who may be different.
2023;52(7):3025-3042. doi:10.1007/s10508-023-02646-y
Westheimer G.Gestalt theory in 20th-century history.J Vis.
2023;23(8):14. doi:10.1167/jov.23.8.14
Faur S, Laursen B.Classroom seat proximity predicts friendship formation.Front Psychol.
2022;13:796002. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.796002
Zajonc RB.Attitudinal effects of mere exposure.J Pers Soc Psychol.
1976;12(6):505-518. doi:10.1016/0022-1031(76)90030-5
