Certainly the rules of touch relate to:

• Culture
• Context
• Nature of the Relationship

Teacher judgment is the best indicator. A teacher who grabs the arm or shoulder of an unruly student enters the students space uninvited. Aside from embarrassment, the student may develop other negative feelings toward the teacher.

More positively, however, touching can also be used as a reinforcer. At times, a teacher can develop a close relationship with students by moving into their personal space. A simple pat on the back for a job well done is a much used and usually accepted form of praise.

As children grow older, however, these touching behaviors become less appropriate. Touch has different impacts in the classroom depending on the age and sex of the students. Still, with older students, hand shaking and an occasional pat on the back could prove effective.

Another question to consider -

How is touch used to convey:

• dominance/control?
• liking/involvement?