Physical activity through place attachment: Understanding perceptions of children and adolescents on urban places by using photovoice and walking interviews

Abstract

Public urban places and their environmental characteristics impact youth's physical activity (PA) through perceptions. The objective of this study was to use a qualitative participatory approach with children and adolescents to understand how their attachment to urban places perceived as PA-friendly or unfriendly is related to their PA behaviour. Ninety-three participants aged six to 17 from six neighbourhoods with varying objective walkability engaged in photovoice and walking interviews. Data were analysed by using the tripartite framework of place attachment (PPP model), which was adapted for application to PA behaviour and supplemented by photographs. Themes were identified for each (sub-)dimension of the PPP model with person, place and process factors influencing attachment. Further subdimensions (PA and other behaviours) and categories (travel mode, trip length and frequency of visits) were added to the PPP model. Urban design recommendations were derived by age and gender to promote PA through place attachment. • Children and youth reported on place attachment related to their physical activity. • Urban places for physical activity should provide mobile and risky play equipment. • Walkability and green spaces enhance the activity friendliness of a neighbourhood. • Combining photovoice and walking interviews engages children and youth in research.

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