Absolutely. In fact, many cities and public spaces already use bench designs that subtly—and sometimes not so subtly—discourage behaviors like lying down, loitering, or aggressive sitting. This approach is often referred to as "hostile architecture" or "defensive urban design," but the good news is that it doesn't have to feel hostile. With thoughtful design, benches can guide behavior without screaming for attention.
For example, one common technique is adding armrests at regular intervals along the bench. This makes it nearly impossible for someone to lie flat across the seat, while still allowing multiple people to sit comfortably. Another subtle trick is tilting the seat surface slightly forward—just enough that leaning back or sitting for hours becomes physically uncomfortable, but not so much that it's obvious to someone sitting down for a quick rest.
Some benches use a convex or curved surface, which creates natural instability for anyone trying to sit in an aggressive posture or spend too long on the bench. Others incorporate central dividers, not necessarily as a harsh barrier, but as a visual cue that the bench is meant for individual seating, not group lounging.
But here's the key: the best designs avoid feeling punitive. A bench that looks uncomfortable is often avoided by everyone—families, runners, and elderly people alike. Instead, good design uses ergonomics and human psychology. For instance, a bench placed next to a busy walkway naturally discourages loitering because people feel too exposed. A bench with slightly too narrow a seat encourages shorter stays without being unkind.
Ultimately, yes, benches can be designed to subtly discourage aggressive sitting or loitering. The challenge is balancing function with humanity. The goal isn't to push people away—it's to keep the space welcoming for all, while gently guiding how it's used. When done right, people barely notice the design. They just naturally sit, rest, and move on.