Assessing the Impact of Urban Green Spaces on Mental Health in a Developing City

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the impact of urban green spaces on mental health within the context of a developing city. The research focuses on understanding the relationship between access to green spaces and mental well-being in urban environments undergoing rapid development. The study aims to provide valuable insights into the significance of urban green spaces in promoting mental health and enhancing overall quality of life in cities facing growth and urbanization challenges. The introduction sets the stage by highlighting the importance of urban green spaces in mitigating the negative effects of urbanization on mental health. The background of the study discusses the current trends in urban development and the growing recognition of the role of green spaces in promoting well-being. The problem statement identifies the gap in knowledge regarding the specific impact of urban green spaces on mental health in developing cities. The objectives of the study are to assess the availability and accessibility of green spaces in the target city, evaluate the usage patterns of these spaces by residents, and analyze the perceived impact of green spaces on mental health. The limitations of the study include potential constraints in data collection and analysis, as well as the challenges of generalizing findings to other urban contexts. The scope of the study encompasses a detailed examination of selected urban green spaces within the developing city, as well as surveys and interviews with residents to gather qualitative and quantitative data. The significance of the study lies in its potential to inform urban planning policies and initiatives aimed at improving mental health outcomes in rapidly developing cities. The literature review synthesizes existing research on the relationship between green spaces and mental health, highlighting key findings and methodologies used in previous studies. Ten key themes are identified, including the psychological benefits of nature exposure, the role of green spaces in stress reduction, and the importance of equitable access to urban green spaces. The research methodology outlines the study design, data collection methods, and analytical approaches employed in the research. Eight components are discussed, including the selection criteria for green spaces, the sampling strategy for survey participants, and the thematic analysis of qualitative data. The discussion of findings presents the results of the study, including insights into the perceived benefits of urban green spaces on mental health, the factors influencing green space usage, and the challenges in maintaining and enhancing green spaces in a developing urban context. The implications of the findings for urban planning and public health policies are also explored. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the relationship between urban green spaces and mental health in developing cities. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing green space preservation and creation in urban planning efforts to support mental well-being and enhance the overall livability of cities undergoing rapid development.