Effects of Urban Noise and Sidewalk Density upon Pedestrian Cooperation and Tempo

Abstract
Effects of three levels of environmental stimulation on pedestrian walking speed and cooperation were investigated in a sidewalk setting (N = 314 men and women). Three combinations of naturally occurring street noise and sidewalk density were employed in a naturalistic test of the urban sensory overload hypothesis. Findings revealed a significant linear relationship between stimulation level and cooperation, and significant effect of environmental stimulation on walking speed. Results are discussed in terms of potential adverse interactive effects of moderate stressors, and suggestions for naturalistic stress research, and applications for noise abatement legislation, are presented.

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