Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the definition of 'Proxemics', a term from the field of non-verbal communication.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's define the terms related to non-verbal communication:
- Kinesics: The study of body movements, gestures, and posture. So, (A) is incorrect.
- Oculesics: The study of eye movement, eye behavior, gaze, and eye-related nonverbal communication. So, (B) is incorrect.
- Proxemics: Coined by anthropologist Edward T. Hall, it is the study of the human use of space and the effects that population density has on behaviour, communication, and social interaction. It specifically deals with the distances (intimate, personal, social, public zones) people maintain. So, (C) is correct.
- Haptics: The study of communication through touch. So, (D) is incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Proxemics is the study of how people use space and maintain distance during social interactions. Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.