Perceptions of Nature and Access to Green Space in Four Urban Neighborhoods

Abstract

Health benefits have been linked to spending time outdoors in nature and green space. However, there is some evidence of inequities to accessing safe outdoor space, particularly in low-resource communities. The primary aim of this study is to assess attitudes towards nature and use of green space in urban areas. A secondary aim is to describe perceptions of physician-initiated nature prescriptions that target local pediatric populations. We conducted six focus group interviews with 42 residents who were guardians or caretakers of children living in low-resource neighborhoods in Philadelphia, PA. We analyzed interview data using a conventional content analysis approach. Three major themes emerged: (1) perceived benefits of being in nature (physical and mental health benefits), (2) barriers to time spent in nature (unsafe and undesirable conditions of local parks), and (3) desired features of outdoor green spaces (amenities that would increase park use). Additionally, we describe participants’ reactions to the idea of a pediatrician-delivered prescription for outdoor green space exposure for a child in their care. Adherence to nature prescriptions programs may hinge on local green space resources, as well as experiential and perceptual barriers and facilitators to nature and park accessibility among caregivers tasked with fulfilling a nature prescription for a child in their care.

Exploring Children’s Views on Important Park Features: A Qualitative Study Using Walk-Along Interviews

“…), rather than the absence of amenities or concerns regarding safety and cleanliness. These themes are distinct from those observed among other age groups, who more often report negative feelings and concerns towards the features and condition of parks and public open spaces [ 42 , 43 ].…”

Determining Factors in the Use of Urban Parks That Influence the Practice of Physical Activity in Children: A Systematic Review

“…Parks should include play equipment that involves some risk and adventure, such as swings and large and tall slides [ 57 ] and that have other facilities (seating and picnic areas) that allow for social interactions and a place to go with friends, siblings or adult relatives [ 57 , 83 ]. Contrary to what is believed by parents and children of other ages [ 91 , 92 ], these children are not concerned about the lack of comfort, safety or cleanliness [ 57 ].…”

Perceived urban green and residents’ health in Beijing

“…Some of those measures are based on data of inadequate resolutions, use poorly-conceived accessibility measures, ignore a user's self-movement and perception, and lack a comprehensive picture of green space properties ( Wendelboe-Nelson et al 2019 ). Subjective measures focus on the perception of green space by local residents ( Haslauer et al 2015 ; Kothencz et al 2017 ; Lee & Maheswaran, 2011 ; Sefcik et al 2019 ). Such measures are often acquired by well-designed questionnaires to identify what elements of green space are valued or not valued by residents, and thus potentially form a more reliable and direct gauge on the pathway from green space to health.…”