Introduction
The city of Tabriz, with a rich history in urban design, is currently facing challenges such as declining urban landscape quality, the prelude to increasing environmental pollution, and a lack of proper management of public spaces. These issues negatively impact the physical and mental health of citizens as well as their social interactions. Furthermore, the shortage of safe sidewalks and suitable environments for physical activities has pushed residents toward using private vehicles, resulting in reduced physical activity and an increase in chronic diseases. This underscores the critical need to pay attention to urban landscape quality.
This research aims to examine the impact of urban space landscapes on the physical and mental health and social interactions of Tabriz residents. It also seeks to provide solutions for improving the design and management of public spaces to enhance the quality of life for Tabriz citizens. The main research question is: "How do urban space landscapes affect the physical and mental health and social interactions of Tabriz residents?"
Theoretical framework
Based on the theoretical foundations reviewed, the landscapes of urban spaces have significant impacts on the physical, mental, and social health of residents. Access to green spaces, areas suitable for physical activity, and public spaces that facilitate social interactions can significantly improve urban quality of life. Proper urban design can lead to a reduction in physical and mental health issues and an increase in social interactions, while poor design may negatively affect public health and well-being. Considering these foundations, the present research will take a closer look at the impacts of urban space landscapes on the health of Tabriz residents.
Methodology
This study employed a quantitative research method based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The statistical population included the entire population of Tabriz (1,643,960 people), with a sample size of 384 determined using Cochran's formula and selected through stratified random sampling to ensure diversity in gender, age, and location. Data were collected using a three-part questionnaire addressing demographic information, physical health, and mental and social well-being. Tools such as DASS-21 and GHQ-12 were utilized to assess mental health. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient (above 0.70), and validity was ensured through expert review. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS software, and SEM was employed to explore the relationships between variables.
Result and discussion
This study aimed to investigate the impact of urban space landscapes on the physical and mental health and social interactions of Tabriz residents. The findings revealed that urban landscapes play a decisive role in enhancing the quality of life for citizens. The statistics highlight the tangible effects of urban landscapes in various domains.
The quality of green spaces, with an average score of 3.7, indicates a relatively adequate level of access in Tabriz, though certain areas still require improvement. These spaces, with a factor loading of 0.83, significantly reduce stress and improve the mental health of citizens. Sidewalks and pathways, with an average score of 4.1 and a factor loading of 0.89, are among the most important factors in enhancing both physical and mental health, though further standardization is needed in parts of the city.
In terms of physical health, the average daily physical activity of residents, with 6.1 steps per day, suggests a moderate level of physical activity. However, this could be improved by enhancing pedestrian areas and public sports spaces. The Body Mass Index (BMI) of residents, with an average of 25.5, indicates a near-overweight condition, underlining the need for expanding spaces for sports and physical activity.
In mental health, stress and anxiety levels, with an average score of 3.4, point to a moderate level of stress among residents. Urban landscapes, particularly green spaces and well-designed public areas, play a crucial role in reducing stress and increasing life satisfaction. The sense of security in urban spaces, with an average score of 3.5, suggests that improvements in security, especially in poorly lit and less frequented areas, are necessary.
Regarding social interactions, the number of daily social interactions, with an average score of 3.8, indicates a reasonable level of interaction among residents. Public and social spaces, with a factor loading of 0.90, have the most significant impact on increasing social interactions and fostering a sense of community belonging.
The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis demonstrated that urban landscapes have a direct impact on physical health (path coefficient: 0.65), mental health (path coefficient: 0.58), and social interactions (path coefficient: 0.62). Additionally, the indirect effects of urban landscapes on mental health through intermediary variables such as physical health and social interactions were confirmed.
Conclusion
The results clearly underscore the importance of improving urban landscapes in reducing stress, enhancing social interactions, and promoting physical health. Urban managers and planners in Tabriz should prioritize actions such as increasing green spaces, improving sidewalks, and developing public spaces, based on these findings, to transform Tabriz into a healthier, more beautiful, and more socially engaging city.