The effect of childhood spatial experiences on the sense of belonging

Nowadays, the impact of childhood experiences on adulthood is not hidden from anyone.Recent research has shown that adults’ lifestyle and behavioral characteristics are the results of the impact that childhood experiences have on the conscious and unconscious. One of the most important elements in a child's identity is "place". The effect of place and its memory on humans is a profound. In today's society, the quality of the environment designed for children and its effects on the sense of belonging to the place has been neglected. In this study by using qualitative research method, different aspect of sense of belonging to a place has been explained. Then, by describing the factors that have an imperative impact on sense of belonging in children, have concluded that there is an interactive connection between children and the environment. As children explore their surroundings, especially through play, they notice the difference between places where they feel satisfied and fulfilled with other places where they might feel reluctant to spend time. These experiences affect people’s personality in adulthood while having a great impact on their self-esteem.

Keywords:

Childhood spatial experience , identity , Place attachment , sense of belonging , sense of place.