The Psychological Buffer of Scenic Views: Coping with Overcrowding in Istanbul's Public Transit

The rapid urbanization of cities has led to overcrowding in public transportation systems, intensifying the psychological stress faced by passengers, particularly during peak hours. While the negative impacts of overcrowding on well-being are well documented, few studies have explored how scenic window views might serve as a coping mechanism to mitigate this stress. This study investigates the role of gazing at natural and urban vistas in reducing the emotional and cognitive strain caused by overcrowding on the Istanbul Tram T5. Additionally, it examines the coping strategies employed by passengers under these conditions, including both psychological and behavioral techniques, to manage discomfort. The results suggest that both natural and urban window views provide restorative benefits, with passengers showing a strong preference for natural views, especially those of Halic water, for their calming effects. Notably, this study highlights the emergence of technology-driven coping strategies, such as smartphone use and music listening, which often complement traditional behaviors such as posture adjustment and avoiding eye contact. This study underscores the importance of incorporating restorative environmental features in public transportation to alleviate stress and enhance the commuting experience in crowded urban settings.