Citation

Wells NM. J. Environ. Psychol. 2005; 25(2): 189-206.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Academic Press)

DOI

10.1016/j.jenvp.2005.02.002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between low-income urban mothers and their residential environments. The participants were women who lived in inadequate housing sometimes located in treacherous, drug- and crime-plagued neighborhoods. Conceptual content cognitive mapping ("3CM") [Kearney and Kaplan (1997). Environment and Behavior, 29(5), 579-617], a qualitative/quantitative hybrid methodology, was used to obtain the mothers' perspectives on both the positive and negative aspects of their housing experience as well as their sense of well-being. The women were followed through the process of partnering with a nonprofit, self-help housing organization, constructing new housing for themselves, and relocating to these new homes. One year later, the same methodology was employed. Results indicate that while living in inadequate housing, many women worried a great deal about their children and felt significant dissatisfaction with their housing. Despite these circumstances, however, they maintained a strong sense of self confidence, optimism, and determination, not unlike Antonovsky's sense of coherence [Antonovsky (1979). Health, stress and coping. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Publishers; Antonovsky (1987). Unraveling the mystery of health. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass Inc., Publishers]. Following relocation, the women were extremely satisfied with their new housing and seem to have a greater sense of well-being. They expressed fewer worries, and seemed to have even stronger sense of coherence.