Armanshahr Architecture & Urban Development

Armanshahr Architecture & Urban Development

Assessment of the Criteria Influencing the Mental Health of Citizens in Public Spaces of Tabriz from the Perspective of Future Studies"

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Associate Professor, Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Ilk.C., Islamic Azad University, Ilkhchi, Iran.
10.22034/aaud.2026.516280.2972
Abstract
Mental health is considered one of the most significant issues in contemporary societies. Public spaces such as parks, squares, and social centers play a crucial role in enhancing the mental health of citizens as places for social and cultural interactions. In this regard, factors such as space design, accessibility to facilities, and diversity of activities can significantly impact the improvement of citizens' quality of life and sense of satisfaction. The aim of this research is to evaluate the criteria influencing the mental health of citizens in public spaces from the perspective of future studies in the city of Tabriz. To conduct this research, structured interviews were initially conducted with 25 specialists in relevant fields, and based on their responses, four criteria were extracted as influential criteria comprising 24 components. The data were analyzed using the impact analysis method in the Mic Mac software. Due to rapid social and cultural changes in society, examining these criteria from the perspective of future studies not only identifies challenges and opportunities but also proposes suitable solutions for improving the state of mental health. Based on the results obtained, the performance criteria with components such as accessibility, security, comfort, visual appeal, variety of activities, and mobility were the most influential factors on the mental health of citizens in the public spaces of Tabriz. In other words, this assessment of the factors affecting the mental health of citizens can serve as an effective tool in urban planning and the design of public spaces in Tabriz, which in turn can enhance the quality of life and mental health of Tabriz citizens. Ultimately, attention to these influential criteria on mental health can contribute to the improvement of social welfare and the creation of a healthier and more sustainable communit.
Keywords

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Volume 18, Issue 53
Spring 2026
Pages 43-66

  • Receive Date 11 April 2025
  • Revise Date 30 January 2026
  • Accept Date 14 February 2026