Psychologists Say That Those Who Prefer Window Seats Are 'More Selfish'
Window or aisle? The question has been a topic of debate for decades. It's so important that every TPG staffer's bio indicates what their preferred seating choice is. Would you rather sit by the window and have amazing views of the Earth down below or have the freedom to stretch your legs into the aisle and go to the bathroom whenever you please?
Now those who prefer the aisle seat may have another argument against the pr-window crowd. People who prefer window seats are actually more selfish, according to a story in The Telegraph.
The British newspaper interviewed two psychologists about the personalities of people who prefer window seats or aisle seats.
Dr. Becky Spelman, chief psychologist at the Private Therapy Clinic in London, said this:
"Passengers who favor the window seat like to be in control, tend to take an 'every man for themselves' attitude towards life, and are often more easily irritable. They also like to 'nest' and prefer to exist in their own bubble."
Spelman added that "those who prefer the aisle are more likely to be of a reserved nature, less irritable and more considerate of others."
Another behavioral psychologist, Jo Hemmings, agreed with Spelman, saying that:
"Champions of the window seat tend to be more selfish. As well as less anxious, seasoned flyers who are more confident in disturbing others.
Aisle passengers are often more sociable and definitely more amenable as people. They are also more likely to be restless flyers and less adept at sleeping on planes."
According to the doctors, more frequent flyers prefer window seats and aren't afraid of disturbing people so they can get up and go to the restroom, while aisle seat people wouldn't want to bother other passengers with their movements. Whatever your type, if you really, really want your preferred seating option, make sure you use a service like Expert Flyer or check in for your flight 24 hours in advance.
The seat you choose may also just come down to simple preference. Do you want to be able to see out the window or do you want easy access to the bathroom?
The story also cited multiple studies that stated that the general population is relatively split when it come to whether they prefer a window or aisle seat.
What do you prefer, a window or aisle seat? Let us know in the comments below.