Speaker
Description
Previous studies on neighborhood attachment in China have mainly focused on specific neighborhood types, such as work unit compounds and commercial-housing estates, while overlooking others. There is therefore inconclusive evidence on this theme, particularly in inland cities. To address this gap, this study examines neighborhood attachment across five main urban neighborhood types in Chengdu. Grounded in social capital and residential satisfaction theories, it employs a qualitative case study approach, involving interviews and non-participant observation. The findings reveal varied experiences across different neighborhoods particularly when distinguishing between emotional and functional attachment. This study argues that emotional attachment emerges from neighborly interactions, which help establish social networks, trust and support, and a sense of belonging among residents. Contrary to previous studies, we find that residents in new commercial-housing neighborhoods do form emotional attachment, largely through neighborly interactions arising from neighborhood activities. Moreover, a favorable neighborhood environment, and adequate facilities enhance residents’ satisfaction, thereby fostering functional attachment. This study also underscores the fluid transition from functional to emotional attachment and highlights the importance of functional attachment in Chinese neighborhoods. The findings elucidate how neighborhoods with different governance models shape attachment differently and provide theoretical grounds for effective neighborhood management and urban planning policy.
| Keywords | Neighborhood; Neighborhood attachment; China; Social capital theory; Residential satisfaction |
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| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
