Entitlement and Spatial Choice

Research question: How can entitlement influence people’s behaviour in space?​

Experiment approach: The experiment used a spatial intervention and comparative setup, creating two different conditions within the same space: assigned seating and free seating. Participants’ behaviour, choices, and interactions were documented through observation, filming, and scoring.

Experiment overview: Twelve participants were divided into two groups. Six received tickets with designated seats, while the other six were free to choose any seat. The experiment explored how different levels of entitlement to a position influenced spatial choices, interactions, and moments of negotiation.

Participants reacted differently when their freedom to choose a seat conflicted with someone else’s assigned position. Some negotiated, while others adapted and changed seats. The familiar and friendly setting reduced the level of conflict.

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