Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent condition among the general U.S. population but in particular for veterans. Anecdotal evidence points to the effect of urban design features on mental wellbeing of PTSD patients. However, evidence-based architectural and space design guidelines for PTSD patients is largely absent. Such guidelines might alleviate PTSD symptoms and improve patients' quality of life. Interviews were conducted with combat veterans who were diagnosed with PTSD (sub population focus) to gain insights into their thoughts, needs, expectations, and experiences with physical indoor and outdoor spaces. The findings suggest that certain indoor and outdoor design elements such as sharp corners, narrow pathways, blind spots, etc. increase anxiety and leads to triggers while soothing features (e.g. open spaces, situational awareness providing features such as lack of clutter or open floor plans) can relax veterans.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | 62nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2018 |
Publisher | Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Inc. |
Pages | 1722-1726 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Volume | 3 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781510889538 |
State | Published - Jan 1 2018 |
Event | 62nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2018 - Philadelphia, United States Duration: Oct 1 2018 → Oct 5 2018 |
Other
Other | 62nd Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting, HFES 2018 |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Philadelphia |
Period | 10/1/18 → 10/5/18 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Human Factors and Ergonomics