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Do agoraphobics interpret the environment in large shops and supermarkets differently?
R B Jones1, G Humphris, T Lewis
1Department of Clinical Psychology, Fazakerley Hospital, Liverpool, UK.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Agoraphobia sufferers find supermarkets challenging due to specific environmental triggers. This study found layout, stairs, and access significantly increase anxiety for agoraphobic shoppers compared to the general public.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Environmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Agoraphobia is characterized by anxiety in public spaces, often including supermarkets.
- Understanding environmental triggers is crucial for managing agoraphobic behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific supermarket features that provoke or alleviate anxiety in individuals with agoraphobia.
- To compare the perceptions of agoraphobic shoppers with those of general shoppers.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with general shoppers (N=500), individuals with agoraphobia (N=40), and a general participant group (N=54).
- Participants rated various supermarket properties on their potential to provoke or ease anxiety-related responses.
Main Results:
- Layout features, presence of stairways, and diminished access were identified as significantly more anxiety-provoking for agoraphobic groups.
- These findings support the safety-signal model of agoraphobic behavior.
- Some evidence also suggested a dysfunction in spatial orientation among agoraphobic individuals.
Conclusions:
- Supermarket design elements like layout, stairs, and accessibility significantly impact anxiety levels in agoraphobic individuals.
- The study reinforces the safety-signal model while highlighting potential spatial orientation challenges in agoraphobia.
- Findings can inform environmental modifications to improve supermarket accessibility for agoraphobic shoppers.