Why People Hate Riding In Elevators According To Science

Like medical terms such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the idea of claustrophobia is now such a touchstone in Western culture that, unlike many other phobias, most people know what the phrase means. They use it in casual conversation when they’re in a confined space, or may even use it metaphorically to describe their social interactions.

But claustrophobia is a real anxiety disorder — a fear of being confined in a small place. Those living with it can experience a range of adverse reactions, including an increased heart rate, breathing issues, shaking, and panic attacks. Elevators, which are typically windowless and often only a few feet wide, can be a nightmare for the estimated 12% of people who experience claustrophobia (per StatPearls). With elevator use such a regular part of daily life for millions of Americans, this can present a real problem. So much so that some therapists now offer specialized elevator phobia therapy to help people with the disorder develop techniques and tools to use elevators calmly and with minimal stress.