برنامهریزی توسعه شهری و منطقهای (Dec 2023)
Examining the Impact of Environmental Characteristics on the Self-Rated Mental Health of Residents by Utilizing an Intermediate Variable of Environmental Preferences
Abstract
The phenomenon of global urbanization is currently undergoing rapid advancements. This scholarly study aims to contribute to the discourse surrounding mental health promotion and the revitalization of urban neighborhoods within the framework of urban planning in Iran. Within this context, the examination of environmental characteristics is of utmost importance due to their substantial impact on mental well-being. This study sought to investigate the individual effects of various environmental characteristics on the overall health of citizens, as well as explore the role of environmental preferences as a mediating variable. Recognizing the influential role of urban environmental design on the mental health of individuals, this research was conducted with the objective of establishing a relationship between the perception of environmental variables and public mental health in residential neighborhoods, while also considering the mediating effect of environmental preferences among the population of Mazandaran. Data was collected via a questionnaire comprising two sections. The first section addressed mental health, utilizing a standardized questionnaire, whereas the second section assessed participants' perceptions of neighborhood characteristics, including security, amenities, aesthetics, and destinations, along with their environmental preferences. The application of structural equation modeling revealed a statistically significant influence of the participants' perception of environmental characteristics on mental health, with a corresponding decrease in mental health condition when environmental preferences were reduced. Introduction Modern lifestyles, accompanied by physical and mental challenges, pose significant threats to human well-being. Echoing the principles outlined in the World Health Organization's (WHO) constitution, which defines health as the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being rather than the mere absence of disease or infirmity, it becomes evident that mental health can be influenced by perceptions of the surrounding environment. The subjective nature of perception, shaped by individual characteristics and environmental factors, underscores the role of residential environments in shaping the mental health and overall welfare of neighborhoods. Recognizing the intricate interplay between environmental perceptions and individual preferences, it becomes apparent that preferences are closely aligned with perceptions, and the evaluation of preferences is rooted in one's personal perception. Given the impact of environmental preferences on human mental health, it becomes crucial to identify and assess indicators of environmental preferences conducive to promoting well-being. To accomplish the primary objective of this research, the following inquiry must be addressed: How does the structural composition of residential environments relate to the mental health of residents in the Mazandaran Province's residential neighborhoods? Literature Review Research has indicated that the attributes of the natural environment hold significant relevance as predictors of health (Kruize et al., 2020). When examining residential environments, these encompass various elements such as amenities, accessibility, safety, visual appeal, and destinations (Giles-Corti & Donovan, 2002; Pikora, Giles-Corti, Bull, Jamrozik, & Donovan, 2003). 2.1. Influence of environmental factors on health Individuals' preferences exert a considerable influence on their perceptions. Furthermore, the combined effects of a residential neighborhood characterized by well-designed streets and accessible public green spaces are known to impact an individual's perception and, consequently, their mental well-being. Research suggests that aesthetically pleasing landscapes can confer both physical and mental health benefits upon individuals (Ronghua Wang et al., 2021). Numerous studies have explored the relationship between the physical environment and mental health, consistently revealing a direct correlation between one's mental well-being and the quality of their surroundings. It has been observed that individuals residing in areas marked by high levels of noise, traffic, derelict structures, and crime tend to experience heightened stress levels (Fong, Cruwys, Haslam, & Haslam, 2019). Studies examining the influence of the environment on health conditions can be broadly divided into four categories: (1) the impact of the environment on overall health, (2) the influence of the environment on mental health, (3) the effects of green spaces on health outcomes, and (4) the role of green environments in mitigating mental health issues and stress. Methodology The present study aims to explore the relationship between perceived neighborhood characteristics, such as safety, aesthetics, destination, and facilities, and their impact on mental health within residential areas. Additionally, this study seeks to investigate the mediating role of environmental preferences among individuals residing in Mazandaran Province. Data for this study was collected through a two-part questionnaire. The first part of the questionnaire assessed participants' health status using the standard questionnaire known as SF36, which provides a comprehensive assessment of health on a global scale. The second part of the questionnaire assessed participants' perceptions of neighborhood characteristics, including environmental preferences, safety, facilities, aesthetics, and destination. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the survey data collected from a sample of 450 residents. Figure 1. Conceptual framework of the study Conclusion Numerous studies have highlighted the significant role of environmental perceptions in influencing individuals' mental health. Thus, the impact of the environment on mental well-being is undoubtedly substantial. Consequently, prioritizing security indicators, facilities, aesthetics, and destinations within the realm of environmental perception is highly recommended to enhance the overall mental health of community members. It is suggested that the provision of environmental factors preferred by residents be given due consideration in efforts to improve population health. By understanding people's preferences, effective measures can be taken to mitigate mental health risks associated with rapid urbanization in urban areas.
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