What term refers to the use of distance between characters to clarify their relationships?

The term that refers to the use of distance between characters to clarify their relationships is positioning/proxemics. Proxemics pertains to the study of personal space and physical distance between individuals in visual storytelling, including drama and theatre. By manipulating the space between characters, a performer can effectively communicate the nature of their relationship—whether it’s intimate, confrontational, or distant. For example, characters who stand close to one another may suggest familiarity or affection, while a larger distance might indicate tension or conflict.

The other options, while related to aspects of relationships and theatre, do not specifically address the use of physical distance to convey character dynamics. Spatial awareness pertains more broadly to understanding the space around performers. Entrapment suggests a scenario where a character is trapped in a situation, and interaction dynamics involves how characters engage with one another, but does not specifically focus on the physical distance that aids in illustrating their relationship. Thus, positioning/proxemics is the most accurate choice for describing the use of distance between characters to enhance understanding of their relationships.