This article explores the psychological impact of airport delays and the unique liminal space they create. Drawing on insights from a psychology lecturer, it examines how the disruption of routines and familiar environments can lead to feelings of disorientation and the search for comfort in unconventional ways.
The departure is delayed. There’s nothing else for it: I’m going to sit on the floor. The actual seats in the airport are all filled and, while I wouldn’t do this in most places, I really can’t think of anything else to do. I feel slightly childish and maybe a little petulant but somehow, what I don’t feel is out of place. There are people in front of me adjusting their clothes and makeup, families sharing floor picnics and even a couple having a frankly obnoxious argument.
If anything, my little corner of the floor seems like the calmest place to be. Etiquette and manners are out the window and we’re all sort of meandering in this liminal space until our trip can actually begin on the other side. According to Steve Taylor, a Senior Psychology Lecturer at Leeds Beckett University, not being at home, following our usual routines or on our trip, following an itinerary, can leave us feeling disorientated and adrift in airports. We define ourselves in terms of time and place. We know who we are in relation to our daily routines and our familiar environments. The psychologist also outlines that our personal sense of identity is at play, too. He explains: “A sense of identity is important to our psychological health, but can become constricting. Like actors who are stuck playing the same character in a play week after week, we enjoy the security of our roles but long to test and stretch ourselves with new challenges. “So to step outside our normal routines and environments feels invigorating. Ideally, the freedom that begins at the airport continues throughout our travel experiences.
Airport Delays Liminal Space Psychology Travel Experiences Identity
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