Social Networks, Social Support and Public Parks in Ljubljana

Abstract

In 2016, almost 75% of the European population lived in cities. While some citizens have the opportunity to access nature areas far away from thebuilt environment, others have limited options to do so. Therefore, there is a growing need for healthy and green spaces. Public green spaces, such as parks; urban forests; and recreational and sports grounds provide convenient recreation options that increase the citizens’ well-being. Often, it is proposed that public green space has a number of social benefits. It is suggested that public green space affects the social networks of residents. Social interactions in public parks are studied frequently, but little is known if this actually results in a bigger or stronger social network. On top of that, while it is sometimes suggested that urban green space affects social support, research is lacking to support this claim. A broader understanding is needed of the relationship between social networks, social support and urban green space. 201 citizens of Ljubljana, Slovenia, filled out a survey about the urban green spaces they visit, their social network and the amount of social support they receive. Residents that visit green space have more strong ties than residents that do not. On top of that, residents that visit green space in the neighbourhood, have more weak ties within the neighbourhood. The amount of social support received, is bigger for those that go to parks, but this is completely mediated by the fact that they have more strong ties. Further research is needed, to find out if this is really caused by social interactions in parks, or if this has other grounds.