Impact of Urban Green Spaces on Community Mental Health and Social Cohesion

Thesis Abstract

Urbanization has significantly transformed natural environments, resulting in reduced access to green spaces and raising concerns about their influence on community well-being. This study aims to empirically assess the impact of urban green spaces on community mental health and social cohesion, with specific objectives to evaluate the relationship between green space accessibility and mental health outcomes, analyze how green environments facilitate social interactions, and identify demographic factors moderating these relationships. The research adopts a cross-sectional design, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena. The population comprises residents aged 18 to 65 within the metropolitan area of a major city, with a stratified random sampling technique employed to select a sample size of 400 respondents, ensuring representation across diverse socioeconomic and demographic groups. Data collection instruments include structured questionnaires measuring mental health using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), social cohesion through the Social Cohesion and Trust Scale, and green space exposure assessed via Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and self-reported access frequency. Additionally, focus group discussions are conducted to gather qualitative insights into community perceptions of green spaces. The validity and reliability of instruments are confirmed through expert reviews, pilot testing, and calculation of Cronbach’s alpha coefficients exceeding 0.75. Quantitative data are analyzed through multiple regression analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to test hypothesized relationships and the theoretical pathways derived from the Biophilia and Social Capital theories. Qualitative data undergo thematic analysis to identify recurring themes related to community perceptions and experiences. It is anticipated that results will demonstrate significant positive correlations between green space accessibility and mental health indices, as well as increased social cohesion indicators. The findings are expected to reveal that proximity to green spaces reduces stress levels and enhances community trust, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, with demographic variables such as age, income, and education moderating these effects. This research contributes novel insights into the empirical linkage between urban green environments and psychosocial well-being, extending knowledge in urban sociology and environmental psychology fields. It provides evidence-based recommendations for urban planning policies aimed at integrating accessible green spaces into city development strategies to promote mental health and social integration, especially in underserved neighborhoods. The main conclusion emphasizes that strategic investments in green infrastructure are instrumental in fostering healthier, more cohesive urban communities. The study suggests that policymakers and urban planners should prioritize equitable access to green spaces, incorporating community participation in their design and management, thereby leveraging green spaces as vital public health assets. Future research is recommended to explore longitudinal impacts and to examine the specific mechanisms through which green environments influence individual and collective health outcomes across different urban contexts.