Feeling Closer Despite the Distance

Abstract

In the framework of “togetherness” as a psychophysiological experience of social presence, the current chapter highlights the importance of work environments to socializing. The absence of such physical collective spaces impacts group-dynamics and team performance in online meetings, which also tend to prioritize task-solving discussions and limit non-verbal exchanges. Interpersonal coordination (or “social glue”), characterized by a spontaneous mutual attunement, both in speech and gestures, is classically observed during collective events where social-bonding and affiliation are promoted. This chapter will review the cognitive, behavioral, and physiological consequences of togetherness and integrate those in the context of recent technological advancements in computer-mediated interaction which have culminated in the advent of virtual and augmented reality. Given the potential of such methods to increase embodied interactions, they have been coined as “empathy machines” and could be seen as a technological solution to restore the experience of togetherness in the workplace.

Enhancing supply chain resilience and realizing green sustainable development through the virtual environment of the metaverse

“…Existing research suggests that the close spatial proximity of the virtual environment can lead firms to develop a sense of rational choice awareness. This is supported by studies indicating that close spatial proximity creates a closer virtual face-to-face (FtFC) distance (Ayache et al, 2021;Choi, 2022;Nilsson & Mattes, 2015) and fosters social…”

“…Existing research suggests that the close spatial proximity of the virtual environment can lead firms to develop a sense of rational choice awareness. This is supported by studies indicating that close spatial proximity creates a closer virtual face‐to‐face (FtFC) distance (Ayache et al, 2021; Choi, 2022; Nilsson & Mattes, 2015) and fosters social exchange relationships (Mirkovski et al, 2019). Specifically, when individuals can directly interact or share in close proximity, their guards are lowered, leading to the establishment of initial trust.…”

“…Secondly, the virtual environment of the metaverse provides enhanced multisensory feedback, which strengthens the effectiveness of the close spatial proximity (Ayache et al, 2021; Choi, 2022). However, empirical verification and detailed explanations regarding these aspects are still lacking.…”