Exploring the Role of City Environment in Meeting Emotional Needs of Individuals
Authors: Ho Amic , Chau Ruth 
Published: August 2023

The influence of city environments on individuals' emotional states and overall welfare is considerable. This research aims to examine the correlation between city environments, dynamic requirements, and the experience of city ambience. Researchers can contribute to developing emotionally supportive and sustainable cities by investigating how city environments can meet or hinder individuals' emotional needs. The central focus of this study pathway revolves around comprehending the emotional needs within city contexts. The emotional needs that individuals strive to fulfil within city environments and examine the variations in these needs among different demographic categories and cultural contexts. city planners and designers can enhance their ability to address the diverse emotional experiences of city residents by acknowledging and understanding these emotional needs. An integral aspect of this field of study pertains to the impact of city design on individuals' emotional well-being. Researchers can analyze the impact of the physical characteristics of city environments, including their layout, architecture, and amenities, on individuals' emotional experiences. This entails examining design elements that foster positive emotions and those that may elicit negative emotions or emotional strain. The comprehension of the impact of city design on emotional well-being enables city planners to construct environments that foster positive feelings and mitigate negative emotional states. The influence of social connections on the perception of city environments is significant. The impact of social relationships and community engagement on individuals' emotional experiences within city environments is examined. Researchers can inform the establishment of inclusive and cohesive city communities by investigating factors contributing to a sense of belonging, connectivity, and social support. The examination of social networks and engagement holds the potential for facilitating the cultivation of positive city emotions and fostering enhanced well-being within individuals.Another crucial area of study pertains to the impact of natural elements on the city environment. The impact of integrating natural elements, such as green spaces, water features, and natural lighting, on enhancing individuals' mental well-being within city environments is investigated. Gaining insight into the influence of nature on emotional experiences can facilitate the integration of natural elements into city designs by city designers, thereby enhancing positive emotions, reducing stress levels, and fostering overall well-being. Furthermore, an analysis will be conducted to explore the impact of technology on the emotional state of city environments. This research domain explores the effects of digital technology and smart city solutions on individuals' emotional encounters within city environments. The objective is to ascertain the potential of technology in enhancing positive emotions, providing emotional support, and meeting emotional needs within city environments. This knowledge can potentially contribute to advancing technological interventions to improve city well-being and quality of life.This research domain proposes utilising a mixed-method methodology for collecting both quantitative and qualitative data pertaining to individuals' emotional encounters within city environments. This approach encompasses the use of surveys, interviews, observational studies, as well as innovative data collection instruments. The findings of this study can be utilised by city planners, architects, legislators, and city developers to create emotionally supportive, livable, and sustainable cities. This research result provides a scholarly contribution to the field of city design and development by examining the relationship between city environments, emotional requirements, and the overall emotional well-being of individuals residing in cities. The comprehension and resolution of individuals' emotional requirements within city environments can potentially foster cities that are more inclusive, vibrant, and emotionally fulfilling for all residents.