How does a handshake affect communication?

Typically handshakes reaffirm human communication and are a positive reinforcement of sincerity. In most cultures a handshake initiates social contact. In the commercial world handshakes as well as other types of bodily contact are inappropriate.

A handshake from a stranger is somewhat excessive contact and some people prefer not to touch unfamiliar persons. This is especially true in urban environments where there are strict unwritten codes for the maintenance of personal space. This is largely due to fear of violence. In an urban environment offering a handshake to a stranger will likely be perceived as covert intimidation and should never be done outside of an appropriate social environment.

There are many do and do not's involved with handshaking. Most of these depend on the present social and cultural environment. If you are not familiar with your environment or those in it, it is best to keep your hands at your side.