How youth are socially engaged in parks: a participatory-approach for understanding youth perceptions and use patterns

Parks are often linked to physical activity for youth provided by park equipment and amenities. Yet, urban green spaces and parks can also afford important opportunities for young people to develop a sense of community, identity and be socially engaged. Spending more time in green spaces can significantly impact the satisfaction and well-being of park users. In this respect, the attractiveness of parks to youth is an important factor to support socially cohesive behaviours. Differences in park preferences and user needs are important, particularly since research often seeks to understand where park users of all ages spend their time and with whom, rather than directly measuring their social network. Hence, parks as sustainable community facilities should promote social interactions among youth, and between youth and adults, which can lead to cohesive behaviours integrated into a social setting. In order for park settings to become favoured by youth, they must afford a range of opportunities for youth activities. This research proposes a youth-friendly participatory-approach that includes a multi-day workshop with youth to explore their social interactions in parks in greater depth. Using drawings, freehand mapping, and discussions using aerial photos of local parks can help us understand how youth use parks, and how they relate to other park users.