THE IMPACT OF URBAN GREEN SPACES ON COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT AND EMOTIONAL REGULATION IN CHILDREN: AN ENVIRONMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Introduction Although reduced opportunity for access to natural environments as a result of urbanization may negatively impact psychological development of children, background information concerning this relationship is lacking. Preliminary research suggests the potential for green space exposure to affect cognitive and emotional development in children. Objective: We sought to explore the effects of exposure to urban green space on executive functioning and emotional regulation in children ages 6-12 years. Method: This cross-sectional quantitative study included 300 children from different urban populations. Participants were categorized into three groups of low, moderate, and high green space exposure. Data were obtained through parent-report questionnaires pertaining to executive functioning and emotional regulation, which were standardized. SPSS v26 was utilized to conduct descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA. Results: Higher exposure to green space was positively associated with executive functioning (M = 34.62, SD = 4.89) and emotional regulation (M = 29.44, SD = 3.76). There was a highly significant positive correlation between green space exposure and executive functioning as measured by Pearson's correlation (r = 0.631; p <. 01), and emotional regulation (r = 0.580, p <. 01). ANOVA revealed statistically significant differences in the three exposure groups (p <. 001) and no significant differences in the gender (t-tests). Conclusions: Urban green space is positively associated with cognitive and affective children's development. These results highlight the importance of incorporating nature in urban planning and in the programs for child development.