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Exploring Social Interaction in Urban Green Spaces
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Exploring Social Interaction in Urban Green Spaces
Green spaces have been shown to significantly influence people’s well-being, especially in urban areas with limited natural access. In the Los Angeles suburban area, Porter Ranch Park is a popular public park that attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. This essay will explore how design, time, and parental habits and perceptions contribute to social interaction at Porter Ranch Park.
First, park design is crucial in determining the type and level of social interaction. An article by Fernelius (2018) discusses the influence of park design on social interaction in urban parks. They argue that a well-designed garden incorporating various elements such as paths, seating, and sports facilities can support multiple activities, leading to increased social interaction among park visitors. At Porter Ranch Park, the design offers various amenities to meet multiple needs and preferences. For example, the park has basketball courts, tennis courts, and baseball fields for those interested in sports while providing walking trails and open grassy areas for those who prefer quieter activities. More activity options lead to more significant opportunities for people to interact with others with similar interests.
In addition, a study by Ryan, Rodenbaugh, Laura, Bellows, and Doyle & Lynch (2022) found that well-designed park spaces that are safe, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing can encourage people to spend more time in parks, leading to increased social interaction. At Porter Ranch Park, the design incorporates safety measures such as adequate lighting and clear views to make the garden safe and welcoming for visitors. A well-maintained and attractive park design also encourages people to spend more time there, leading to more opportunities for social interaction.
Second, the notion of time and custom play a significant role in social interaction at Porter Ranch Park. A study by Herrington and Brussoni (2019) found that people visit parks at similar times and on certain days of the week, which can lead to predictable patterns of social interaction. Weekends and afternoons are the busiest times at Porter Ranch Park, so visitors are more likely to meet others during these times. Visiting a park at a specific time or day can also increase social interaction, as park visitors are more likely to encounter others with similar habits.
In addition, a study by Moore, Lynch & Boyle (2022) found that the amount of time spent in green spaces was positively related to social interaction. At Porter Ranch Park, the park’s design and amenities make it an attractive place to spend time, resulting in increased social interaction among visitors. Spending time in the park can also lead to better acquaintances with other visitors, which contributes to more frequent social interaction.
Third, parental perceptions and green space can significantly influence social interaction at Porter Ranch Park—the study by John & Feng (2020). Parents’ perceptions of the safety and availability of green areas are positively associated with children’s use of green regions. At Porter Ranch, parents who perceive the park as safe and accessible are more likely to bring their children to the park, leading to increased social interaction between families and children.
Another study that supports the positive impact of green spaces on parents’ perceptions and their children’s well-being is that of Taylor et al. (2015). The study aimed to investigate the relationship between parents’ perception of surrounding green areas and the child’s level of physical activity. The study found that parents’ perceptions of green spaces, such as availability, quality, and safety, were positively related to children’s level of physical activity.
Similarly, a recent Boyle (2022) study also found a positive relationship between green spaces and parental perceptions of child well-being. The study aimed to investigate the effects of greenery on children’s well-being and healthin the context of rapid urbanization. The study found that proximity to green areas and frequency of visits to green spaces were associated with better parental perceptions of children.
The positive effects of green spaces on parents’ perceptions and children’s well-being can be attributed to several factors. Green spaces provide outdoor physical activity and social interaction opportunities that promote mental and physical health. Green spaces also protect against environmental stressors and noise pollution, creating a calmer and more peaceful environment. In addition, the aesthetic value of green spaces can improve the overall perception of a neighbourhood and promote social cohesion.
In conclusion, the three ideas presented in this essay demonstrate the interconnectedness of park design, time and customs, and parental perceptions of greenery on social interactions at Porter Ranch Park. Design elements such as seating arrangements, play areas, and lighting can encourage social interactions and create a sense of community. Time and habits, such as the frequency and duration of park visits, can also influence social interactions and community engagement. Parents’ perceptions of greenery, such as accessibility, quality, and safety, can influence their children’s well-being and promote social interactions. By considering these factors, park designers and planners can create spaces encourage social interaction and strengthen the sense of community in Porter Ranch Park.
References
Fernelius, (2018). Evidence-based practices for the design of inclusive playgrounds that support peer interactions among children with all abilities (Doctoral dissertation, Utah State University).
Faulkner, G., Mitra, R., Buliung, R., Fusco, C., & Stone, M. (2015). Children’s outdoor playtime, physical activity, and parental perceptions of the neighbourhood environment. International journal of play, 4(1), 84-97.
Lambert, A., Vlaar, J., Herrington, S., & Brussoni, M. (2019). What Is the Relationship between the Neighbourhood Built Environment and Time Spent in Outdoor Play? A Systematic Review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(20), 3840.
Moore, A., Lynch, H., & Boyle, B. (2022). Can universal design support outdoor play, social participation, and inclusion in public playgrounds? A scoping review. Disability and Rehabilitation, 44(13), 3304-3325.
Moore, A., Boyle, B., & Lynch, H. (2022). Designing public playgrounds for inclusion: a scoping review of grey literature guidelines for Universal Design. Children’s Geographies, 1-17
Putra, I. G. N. E., Astell-Burt, T., Cliff, D. P., Vella, S. A., John, E. E., & Feng, X. (2020). A systematic review of the relationship between green space and prosocial behaviour among children and adolescents. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 859.
Visser, K., & Van Aalst, I. (2022). Neighbourhood Factors in Children’s Outdoor Play: A Systematic Literature Review. Tijdschrift voor economische en sociale geografie, 113(1), 80-95.
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