Urban Green Spaces and Mental Health: Sociological Perspectives from Bandung Residents
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37899/mjds.v2i1.219Keywords:
Community Cohesion, Environmental Sociology, Mental Health, Social Well-Being, Sustainable Urban DevelopmentAbstract
Urban green spaces have increasingly been recognized as important resources for promoting mental health and social well-being in rapidly urbanizing cities. This study examines how residents of Bandung, Indonesia, perceive and experience the relationship between urban green spaces and mental health from a sociological perspective. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and field documentation involving residents from diverse social backgrounds. The findings indicate that urban green spaces contribute to psychological restoration, emotional resilience, social interaction, and community cohesion. Participants described parks and green environments as important spaces for relieving stress, improving emotional well-being, strengthening social relationships, and fostering a sense of belonging. However, issues related to accessibility, maintenance, overcrowding, and safety continue to influence the extent to which residents can benefit from these spaces. The study highlights the importance of integrating environmental, social, and psychological considerations into urban planning policies. Urban green spaces should be recognized not only as ecological assets but also as essential socio-ecological infrastructures that support sustainable and healthy urban living.
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