What is the duration of a socially acceptable hug between two non family member men? If we were in the same room together, I'd hug you for about 12 seconds longer than that. Now, you're thinking to yourself, '12 seconds isn't long.' And you're right. But count it out to yourself in your head. 1. 2. 3. etc. And imagine my arms wrapped firmly around you during that time. See where things could get awkward?