Well I am guilty as charged. I touch people - usually on their hand - when I feel the need to acknowledge something they have said. I do this when I realise they are down or scared. I think I do this out of habit because I want to give the message they are not alone. I do this instinctively; thinking little about it. I immediately realise though the inappropriateness of the action. I can't help it. Yes, I am perfectly aware it is unwelcome to most.

Now on the otherhand, I have a very tight personal space. I shake the hands of complete stangers in order to make them feel welcome. I in turn have some degree then of inclusion to the group. There is a lot you can also tell of a person by shaking their hand.

It occurs to me that a big reason I do this comes from techniques I have picked up or was taught while I was in retail sales.

Again, I don't choose to do this. I only realise I have done it after it has happened.