IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section B

Abstract

This research examines the perception of fear and safety among women in residential open spaces and the potential links between those perceptions and configurational characteristics of open spaces. While being primarily influenced by street networks to navigate urban spaces (Hillier et al., 1993), women also frequently develop avoidance strategies to ensure their personal safety. Existing research suggests that spatial cognition and perceptions of fear significantly impact women’s navigation through urban environments (Listerborn, 1999; Miranda and van Nes, 2020). This study aims to provide a new understanding of morphological variability from a gendered perspective to assist planning and design professionals in creating spaces that foster a sense of safety and supports women’s free movement in urban settings. To do so, an innovative methodology is developed integrating spatial, morphological, qualitative and biometric data. Female participants are recruited to assess spaces individually through a mixed-method approach: The participants wear a smartwatch recording physiological and geolocation data and are provided with a map taking them through these open spaces. Upon completing the route, they walk back with the researcher to the starting point while recording a walking interview and responding to questionnaires. The data collected, which includes physiological data, quantitative ratings, and identified areas of safety or insecurity, is statistically analysed and visualised using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The interviews are also analysed using thematic analysis and the main themes emerging are spatially located along the route to support the quantitative analysis and understand how spatial parameters relate to feelings of fear and safety.