Examining Women's Experiences of Flight Anxiety Through Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Many individuals experience flight anxiety, though its intensity varies. Most studies in the literature on flight anxiety have utilized quantitative research methods. Flight anxiety is also recognized as being more prevalent among women like other anxiety types. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the individual experiences of women with flight anxiety and identify common patterns that emerge from these experiences. Eight women who were identified as having high levels of flight anxiety according to their scores on the Flight Anxiety Situations Questionnaire and the Flight Anxiety Modality Questionnaire participated in this study. Participants were aged between 22-51. Individual and online semi-structured interviews, each lasting approximately 1 hour, were conducted with the participants. In line with the purpose of this study, using the thematic analysis method was deemed appropriate in providing access to common or shared experiences that are important regarding the topic being examined. As a result of thematic analysis, five main themes were obtained: worried thoughts about potential flight issues, association of flying with death, being alert and flying in a state of tension, feeling of deprivation lead by flight anxiety and strategies used to cope with flight anxiety. In general, it was observed that the findings were consistent with the relevant literature. It is thought that the information obtained about the factors associated with flight anxiety, the negative impacts of flight anxiety on the lives of individuals experiencing it, and the strategies used to cope with flight anxiety can be addressed in clinical interventions.