Spatial decision-making: Between individual choices and collective references

Abstract

Our individual spatial behaviours are all guided by collective references, whether for a choice of routes (by road, on foot, etc.), places frequented (choice among various shopping centres, etc.), or residential choices (choice of moving to another part of town or another locality). The ideas conveyed by our entourage (family, friends) or by some wider social group (e.g. via national surveys or the media) influence us. However, our individual spatial behaviours are not guided by collective references alone; individual determinants also come into play such as the means of transport we have for our daily commutes, the number of children in our household, or personal past experience (especially during our childhood).