What is the term for the space used when interacting with close friends?

The term that accurately describes the space used when interacting with close friends is personal distance. This distance typically ranges from about 1.5 to 4 feet and is characterized by a comfortable level of intimacy that allows for conversation without feeling overly invasive. It is the space where friends and acquaintances interact more freely and comfortably, sharing personal thoughts and feelings while maintaining enough space for increased comfort.

Intimate distance, while relating to close relationships, is even closer than personal distance, typically within 0 to 1.5 feet, and is more appropriate for situations involving romantic partners or very close family members. Socio-petal space refers to an arrangement that encourages interaction, whereas socio-fugal space refers to arrangements that discourage interaction. These terms reflect social dynamics in physical space but do not specifically define the typical, comfortable distance shared between good friends during conversation.