Study Reveals Why People Avoid Middle Seats on PublicTransport

It is common to observe passengers avoiding the middle seats on public transport. What is the scientific explanation for this phenomenon? This phenomenon is frequently observed in public spaces, particularly on public transport, often leaving middle seats unoccupied. This behaviour has been studied previously. For instance, Kirsten Phillips explored it for her Master’s thesis in psychology at Massey University in New Zealand, titled ‘Choice of Bus Seat as an Indicator ofHuman Sensitivity to the Environment’. She conducted observational research on 26 bus journeys in New Zealand, analysing 546 passengers. Her observations revealed several patterns. Firstly, most passengers spread out evenly to maintain distance, which analysis suggests minimises stress from being close to strangers. Secondly, many passengers prefer window seats, as they create a greater sense of space through the view outside. Thirdly, some avoid sitting next to strangers, consistently choosing empty seats over adjacent occupied ones, indicating a strong preference to avoid contact with unfamiliar individuals. Overall, the study concluded that this reluctance to sit in middle seats on public transport is not random. Humans instinctively preserve their spatial boundaries, deliberately choosing seating to protect personal territory and avoid contact with others, thereby creating psychological comfort.