Brown, B., D.D. Perkins & G. Brown, 2003, Place attachment in a revitalizing neighborhood: individual and block levels of analysis, in: Journal of Environmental Psychology, ,
- Author : Brown, B., D.D. Perkins & G. Brown
- Year : 2003
- Journal/Series : Journal of Environmental Psychology
- Pages : 259-271
- Abstract in English : Place attachments are positive bonds to physical settings that support identity and provide other psychological benefits. However, place attachments have been neglected as a potential strength in declining suburban neighbourhoods. Neighbourhood decline involves both social and physical aspects of decline, yet little is know about how decline relates to residents bonds with home and neighbourhood. The present study examines whether social and physical indicators of decline across a neighbourhood relate to lower levels of place attachment. Specifically the study tests whether resident’s attachments to their homes and neighbourhood relate to perceived and observed physical decline and incivilities, rental housing crime fear and victimization and levels of social cohesion and control. If place attachment is related to social and physical indicators of decline then efforts to reverse decline require understanding and potential mobilization of place attachment bonds. This study has shown how place attachments reflect both physical and social investments in homes and blocks. Place attachments should be considered by policy makers who have emphasized social and economic tools to reverse neighbourhood decline.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: Place attachment, neighbourhood, revitalization, quality of life. [This paper is not dealing with aspects of landscape design etc. but in relationship with holistic approaches of landscape design issues, some understanding of concepts like place attachment may contribute to interdisciplinary solutions for neighbourhood problems].