Question

My cousin "learned" in her Intro to Psych course that this is the correct way to hug someone: stand perfectly straight (like a board), extend the arms without moving your shoulders or elbows, squeeze relatively tightly for two seconds, and then let go. Is it true?

Community Answer

There isn't a 'correct' or 'incorrect' way to hug, as long as both people involved are comfortable. It should come naturally, especially if the two of your are comfortable with and generally affectionate with each other. If it's just a 'polite' hug, like with some relative you're greeting that you're not that close with, you don't need to squeeze them tightly or hold it for two seconds. If it's someone you're really close with, you can hold each other as long as you like. If you feel the other person letting go or feel like they're uncomfortable, let it go so it's not awkward.