Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student, Department of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of Urban planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science & Technology, Tehran,Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Urban planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science & Technology, Tehran,Iran

10.22054/urdp.2025.86794.1715

Abstract

Given the vital role of socio-cultural and psychological components in shaping sustainable neighborhoods, these dimensions have rarely been studied in a comprehensive and systematic manner. With the growing importance of improving the quality of life for children as the future generation, designing sustainable neighborhoods with a child-friendly approach has gained increasing attention. This study aims to identify and prioritize the socio-cultural and psychological components of sustainable child-friendly neighborhoods and to propose a practical framework in this field. Conducted using a qualitative, descriptive method and logical reasoning, the research first employed a systematic review of scientific literature and credible national and international sources to extract relevant components. These components were then prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) based on expert input from 20 specialists. Finally, through a comparative analysis, key components were identified at three scales: metropolitan, intermediate, and small cities. The findings indicate that the socio-cultural components include education, justice, interaction and participation, accessibility, well-being and quality of life, cohesion, identity and sense of belonging, responsibility, event-based activities, diversity, and safety and security. The psychological components include spatial and environmental perception, emotional and mental well-being, psycho-social interactions, psychological and social support, psychological resilience, cognitive stimulation and creative learning, sense of belonging and meaning, and personal and character development. These components contribute to enhancing children’s quality of life and support the development of safe environments for their growth. The proposed model serves as a strategic tool for policymakers, planners, and urban designers to integrate children's needs into sustainable development processes.

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