The main concern of this paper is to classify the different methods of measurement of sense of place (which is a very vague concept). The existence and intensity of sense of place is also related to social and cultural variables, such as ethnic and religious background. This paper reviews the different methods of measuring sense of place and classifies them according to different criteria. The study applies a bipolar (positive and negative level of attachment), unidimensional scale which is composed of one component of scaling, using a 'direct' technique. The results point to similarities and differences between Israeli-born and immigrant groups. Most of the respondents in both groups had similar patterns of positive feelings towards the place where they live. The differences were smaller than the similarities. The sense of place scale applied in this study has the advantage of being a simple tool that is understandable to all types of respondents. Copyright (c) 2005 by the Royal Dutch Geographical Society KNAG.

The study focuses on the sense of place among Ghajar inhabitants.Ghajar is unique in its geographical and ethnic status. It is located in the junction of Israel, Syria and Lebanon.The residents are the only Alawites under Israeli control and are isolated from their ethno-religious center in Syria. Two consecutive quantitative surveys and a qualitative study have been implemented: The first quantitative survey was aimed at determining a variety of aspects and attitudes of Ghajar residents towards Israel and towards their village. The second quantitative survey describes the national identity of the residents towards Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and Ghajar. The results represent complicated and instrumental feelings towards Israel, and a very clear and positive attachment toward Syria and towards their village.