Behavior mapping is used to systematically explore how people and animals relate to their habitat. Place-centered maps are used to record behavior of many individuals in a particular space. The timing of the observations is likely to influence the findings. Person-centered (or individual-centered) maps track the behavior of individuals through space and time. As with other forms of observation research, observers need to be trained in the correct procedure, and reliability of the observations must be established. Mapping is very useful for finding out about behavior in specific locations. That behavior may not generalize to other settings.
Cognitive maps are of a different sort. They represent an individual's own characterization of space. They are particularly useful to architects and planners involved in designing human spaces. Psychologists and other social scientists use them to gain insight into people's perceptions of their environment. They also can be used to track developmental processes.
Terms to know (define each before clicking to see the definition in a pop-up message)
cognitive map individual-centered map person-centered map place-centered map reliability salient