Group dynamic behavior and psychometric profiles as substantial driver for pedestrian dynamics

TL;DR

This paper explores how group dynamics and psychometric profiles influence pedestrian movement, emphasizing individual perception and intra-group coordination over traditional operational models, supported by empirical data from mass events and evacuation tests.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach integrating psychophysical concepts and intra-group coordination into pedestrian movement models, moving beyond traditional operational considerations.

Findings

Identification of key group dynamic behaviors during mass events.

Insights into psychological decision principles in evacuation scenarios.

Empirical data supporting the importance of perception and intra-group coordination.

Abstract

Our current research lays emphasis on the extended pedestrian perception and copes with both the dynamic group behavior and the individual evaluation of situations, and hence, rather focuses on the tactical level of movement behavior. Whereas common movement models primary consider operational aspects (spatial exclusion or distance and direction related repulsion), the consideration of psychophysical concepts and intra-group coordination overcomes the idea of directed repulsion forces and derives specific movement decision with respect to the individual evaluation of situations. To provide a solid basis we analyze both data recorded at a mass event and data from a double-staged evacuation test to derive essential group dynamic behaviors and psychological related decision principles, respectively.