The effect of social interactions on travel behaviour: An exploratory study using a laboratory experiment

This study demonstrates the use of a laboratory experiment for investigating the effects of social interaction on the dynamics of travellers’ choice behaviour. A small-scale exploratory experiment is carried out. Analyses are conducted using statistical tests, descriptive methods and learning models to investigate the net and gross effects of social interaction behaviour, as well as the direction of change of each individual’s behaviour. The study shows how a laboratory experiment can enhance understanding of the effects of social interaction on travellers’ behaviour at both the system and individual traveller levels.

Research highlights► A laboratory experiment to investigate the effects of social interaction on travellers’ choice behaviour is designed. ► A small-scale exploratory experiment is conducted. ► Analyses are conducted using statistical tests, descriptive methods and learning models. ► There exist strategic behaviours that follow confirmation and conformity models of social learning.