Designing inclusive public spaces: addressing agoraphobia and safety-seeking behaviour through urban design

This research suggests that thoughtful urban design aligning the spatial environment with a human scale can foster a sense of psychological connection and safety for those experiencing ‘safety-seeking-avoidance-behaviour’, a condition clinically recognised as agoraphobia. It recommends prioritising key spatial themes such as optimising a sense of enclosure, selecting natural and man-made elements, incorporating multiple lines of sight, enhancing activities and seating options, and managing occupancy to promote accessibility and inclusivity. In essence, the paper argues that agoraphobia should be a tangible consideration in urban design to create environments that feel more intimate, accessible, and conducive to human interaction, as opposed to large, impersonal, or overwhelming spaces.