Caresses are a means of non-verbal communication that transmits a wide range of emotions and meanings. In the psychological field, caresses can be interpreted as gestures with a deep emotional and social impact on our relationships. It is important to understand that there are different types of caresses, each with its own meaning and expression. In this article, we will explore the 9 most common types of caresses and what emotions or messages they usually convey.
Caresses of Affection
Caresses Affection are those displays of affection and tenderness that express love, appreciation, and emotional connection. These caresses are usually soft, warm and comforting, transmitting security and love towards the other person. They can be expressed through hugs, kisses, hair caresses, among other gestures of intimacy.
What they express:
Affectionate caresses communicate a feeling of closeness, protection and support emotional. They reinforce emotional ties between people and generate a sense of belonging and unconditional love.
Caresses of Gratitude
Caresses of gratitude are gestures that express gratitude, recognition and admiration towards another person . They can be expressed through pats on the back, handshakes, or hugs of gratitude. These caresses are usually accompanied by words of recognition and appreciation.
What they express:
Caresses of gratitude transmit the value we have towards the other person and strengthen the relationship. They generate a positive environment and emotional reciprocity, promoting healthy social interaction.
Consoling Caresses
Consoling caresses are gestures of empathy and support that are offered to a person in moments of sadness, pain or affliction. These caresses are usually soft, calming and comforting, transmitting understanding and compassion towards the other. They can be expressed through hugs, caresses on the shoulder, or pats on the back.
What they express:
Consoling caresses show the willingness to provide emotional support and containment in moments difficult. They transmit empathy, solidarity and the willingness to accompany the other in their pain.
Celebratory Caresses
Celebratory caresses are gestures of joy, enthusiasm and happiness that are expressed in moments of achievement, success or happiness. These caresses are usually energetic, festive and full of vitality, transmitting joy and ecstasy. They can be expressed through hugs, pats on the back, or even jumping for joy.
What they express:
Celebratory caresses reflect shared happiness and joy over the achievements achieved. . They transmit enthusiasm, satisfaction and the importance of celebrating moments of joy together.
Warning Caresses
Warning caresses are gestures that communicate a message of caution, alert or prevention to another person. These caresses are usually firm, direct and with a serious tone, conveying the need to be on guard or alert in a specific situation. They can be expressed through subtle touches on the arm, firm handshakes, or energetic movements to attract attention.
What they express:
Warning caresses indicate the importance of pay attention to a particular situation or imminent danger. They convey the need to act with caution and be alert to possible risks or threats.
Control Caresses
Control caresses are gestures that seek to dominate, manipulate or exercise power over another person. . These caresses are usually invasive, dominant and with a possessive tone, transmitting the intention to control or influence the other person. They can manifest themselves through insistent touching, rough grabbing, or caresses that invade personal space.
What they express:
Control caresses reflect the need to establish dominance over the other person. and limit their autonomy. They transmit an unequal power dynamic and can generate feelings of discomfort, submission or resistance in the person who receives them.
Caresses of Rejection
Caresses of rejection are gestures that communicate distance, disapproval or denial towards another person. These caresses are usually cold, distant and with a tone of rejection, conveying a lack of connection or affection towards the other. They can manifest themselves through avoidance of physical contact, cold glances, or gestures of disdain.
What they express:
Rejection caresses reflect a lack of interest, empathy, or acceptance toward the person. another person. They transmit an emotional barrier and make it difficult to build a positive emotional relationship, generating distance and discontent in the interaction.
Competitive Caresses
Competitive caresses are gestures that express rivalry, challenge or confrontation towards another person. These caresses are usually energetic, challenging and with a competitive tone, conveying the intention to stand out or demonstrate superiority. They can be manifested through strong handshakes, vigorous pats on the back, or gestures of arrogance.
What they express:
Competitive caresses reflect the need to demonstrate skills, power or control over the other person. They transmit a dynamic of rivalry and confrontation, generating tension or rivalry in the interpersonal relationship.
Humiliation Caresses
Humiliation caresses are gestures that seek to belittle, shame or denigrate another person. . These caresses are usually aggressive, hurtful and with a tone of contempt, transmitting the intention to harm or humiliate the other. They can manifest themselves through pushing, slapping, or offensive gestures.
What they express:
Humiliating caresses reflect the intention to hurt, belittle or degrade the other person. They transmit emotional violence, disrespect, and a destructive power dynamic, generating pain, shame, or indignation in those who receive them.
In conclusion, caresses are a powerful form of non-verbal communication that can strengthen or weaken our interpersonal relationships. It is essential to be aware of the type of caresses we give and receive, as these can reveal a lot about our emotions, intentions, and the quality of our interactions. Learning to interpret and express caresses appropriately can help strengthen emotional bonds, foster empathy, and build healthy and meaningful relationships in our lives.