Spatial modelling of psychosocial benefits of favourite places in Denmark: A tale of two cities

Abstract

Living in urban areas is known to increase the risk of psychosocial disorders, including stress, depression, and anxiety. Existing studies suggest that experiential places, including places of interest or favourite places, can mitigate these negative effects on psychological and physical health often associated with urban living. This study aims to model the spatial patterns of the benefits derived from favourite locations in two cities in Denmark: an urban metropolitan area (the capital city) and a provincial commuter town. Additionally, it examines the influence of individual and household socioeconomic factors on the benefits derived from these favourite places. Employing an online Public Participatory Geographic Information System (PPGIS) approach, data on favourite locations, derived benefits, and socioeconomic characteristics of 1400 respondents were collected. Bayesian modelling with Stochastic Partial Differential Equations under the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation framework (INLA-SPDE) was utilized to predict the spatial patterns of four types of benefits – restorative, physical activity, socializing, and cultural – associated with enjoying favourite places in the two municipalities. This geostatistical approach allows for the identification of specific locations within the cities with perceived benefits and areas lacking such benefits. The findings provide insights into potential inequalities in the spatial distribution of perceived benefits of favourite places in Copenhagen and Roskilde, thereby informing urban planning policies and programs aimed at addressing these disparities.