Knowledge of neighborhood nature is associated with strong sense of place among Milwaukee youth
Neighborhood nature may help create a strong sense of place in youth
“Sense of place” in childhood is believed to contribute to healthy development, cultivate children’s awareness of the natural environment, and help children establish a sense of self. Findings in this study, which focused on children, indicated associations between knowledge of a nearby nature place to play and a strong sense of place. Important elements included in the formation of a sense of place include social and cultural affiliations, including time spent with family members in special places.
Data from the “More Than a Pretty Place” project were examined to evaluate the impact of environmental education on attitudes and behaviors. Researchers surveyed students to determine their sense of place, knowledge of nearby natural places, and awareness of their local neighborhoods. Researchers used two questionnaires to evaluate children’s attitudes, knowledge, and constructs that relate to sense of place.
Participants knowledge of nearby nature was strongly associated with components of a strong sense of place. Researchers acknowledge that having neighborhood nature may result in a strong sense of place, but it also may be that children with a strong sense of place may result in more awareness of nearby nature.
Citation
Kroencke, R., Hormann, K., Heller, E., Bizub, J., Zetts, C., Beyer, K., (2015). Knowledge of neighborhood nature is associated with strong sense of place among Milwaukee youth. Children, Youth and Environments Quarterly, 25(3),
