## 3 Results
### Human Factors Influencing Evacuation
#### 3.2.2 Influence of Group Size and Mastering Methods  
[PERSON] et al. (2018) expanded on the insights related to the complexity of group dynamics by focusing on the behavior of smaller groups during evacuations. Their research, which utilized a simulation to compare different evacuation methods based on the urgency of the situation, found that collective group behavior substantially influenced evacuation patterns. The study revealed that smaller groups tend to have longer evacuation durations compared to larger groups, primarily due to extended pre-movement times--the delay between when an evacuation signal is given and when the group actually begins moving. This delay is often caused by the need for group members to communicate and coordinate before taking any action. In contrast, larger groups, with more defined leadership structures, tend to mobilize more quickly, since the presence of a clear leader who directs the group's movements can significantly enhance the speed and coordination of the evacuation ([PERSON] and [PERSON], 2018). This finding though is debated [PERSON] et al. (2018) who out forward that decision-making times increase with group size; nevertheless, decisions are typically dominated by the group leader, who communicates the intended direction to the rest of the group.  
Moreover, the choice of evacuation method also plays a significant role in determining the efficiency of the process. [PERSON] et al. (2018) compared two primary methods: one where immediate abandonment of the ship is necessary (Method I), and another where passengers relocate to the nearest assembly stations before proceeding to boarding stations if required (Method II). The study found that Method II, which involves an intermediate step of gathering at assembly stations, generally resulted in shorter evacuation durations compared to the more direct Method I. This finding suggests that when designing evacuation strategies, it is essential to consider the urgency of the situation and the potential benefits of a more controlled, staged approach to evacuation. Furthermore, it was suggested that congestion areas are another critical factor influenced by group behavior. [PERSON] et al. (2018) clearly demonstrated that the presence of groups significantly affected the creation and duration of congestion zones on the ship.  
While the size of the congestion regions remained relatively constant, the time and length of congestion were extended due to the waiting behaviors of group members, which hindered the prompt evacuation of individuals behind them. This effect was particularly pronounced during more urgent emergencies (Method I), where the need for immediate evacuation led to increased congestion compared to less pressing situations that allowed for more controlled movement (Method II) (Figure 5). The impact of group behavior on detour distances and overall evacuation efficiency was also evident. Surprisingly, smaller groups were found to significantly increase detour distances during evacuations, introducing disorder into the process, especially during urgent emergencies. Group members' tendency to stay together often results in taking longer, less direct routes, as individuals adjust their paths to stay close to slower members or to reunite with those who have become separated. This behavior not only increases detour distances, but also disrupts the flow of the evacuation, causing delays for other passengers and reducing overall efficiency ([PERSON] and [PERSON], 2018).