New paper in the International Journal of Research in Marketing

In our new paper, we examine the nature and consequences of spatial captivity, defined as perceived physical limitations on an individual’s free movement in the immediate material surroundings, using field data, surveys, and experiments across diverse service contexts. We find that while spatial captivity typically has negative effects, these effects change under conditions of psychological threat (e.g., job interview anxiety, uncertainty about medical results, or watching scary movies). In such moments, more enclosed spaces can create a sense of protection, ultimately increasing customer satisfaction.

The arcticle is available here.