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Role of Space Qualities of Urban Parks on Mood Change

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Abstract

Current literature shows an adequate evidence of the importance of urban parks on people health, especially to reduce stress. Nevertheless, space quality must be considered. This research presents people’s perception of the relationship between space quality of urban park and mood state after visiting urban parks. A questionnaire survey gleaned opinion from visitors in three popular urban parks in Gorgan city. Study showed that three variables of space qualities including “fresh air”, “tree and greening” and “flower” positively predicted mood state. The finding of this study also showed that attitudes towards “tree and greening” and “flower” were different. “Flower” was found as the most influential space quality to explain the mood state for women, while “tree and greening” was profound among men. The use of flowers is suggested as a means of making urban parks more relaxing and pleasant for women. The importance of green areas inclusive of trees and flowers should be considered for future urban planning. This insight also provides a strong reason for collaboration between health professionals and city planners.

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Acknowledgements

This research was supported by Golestan University through a research grant (Project No: 93/71/19417).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Golestan University, Gorgan, Golestan, Iran

    Mahdieh Pazhouhanfar

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  1. Mahdieh Pazhouhanfar
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Correspondence to Mahdieh Pazhouhanfar.

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Pazhouhanfar, M. Role of Space Qualities of Urban Parks on Mood Change. Psychol Stud 63, 25–31 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-017-0434-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-017-0434-6

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