10.57647/j.ccd.2025.0804.24

Developing a Model of the Impact of Urban Third Spaces on the Perception and Behavior of Children with Autism: Identifying and Analyzing Environmental, Perceptual, and Social Dimensions (Case Study of Kerman City)

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  • Sajede Mehrabi1,
  • Afsoon Mahdavi*1,
  • Mahin Eslami Shahrbabaki2,
  • Mahshid Tajrobehkar3,
  1. Department of Urbanism, Kerman Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kerman, Iran
  2. Neuroscience Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Afzalipoor School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
  3. Department of Psychology, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran

Received: 2024-12-03

Revised: 2025-01-10

Accepted: 2025-02-03

Published in Issue 2025-12-31

Copyright (c) 2026 Sajede Mehrabi, Afsoon Mahdavi, Mahin Eslami Shahrbabaki, Mahshid Tajrobehkar (Author)

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Mehrabi, S., Mahdavi, A., Eslami Shahrbabaki, M., & Tajrobehkar, M. (2025). Developing a Model of the Impact of Urban Third Spaces on the Perception and Behavior of Children with Autism: Identifying and Analyzing Environmental, Perceptual, and Social Dimensions (Case Study of Kerman City). Creative City Design, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.57647/j.ccd.2025.0804.24
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Abstract

Purpose: This study develops a conceptual model to explain the impact of urban third spaces on the perception and behavior of children with autism, with a particular emphasis on identifying influential environmental codes. As key settings for social interaction and public engagement, urban third spaces play a critical role in shaping the sensory, cognitive, and social experiences of autistic children.

Methodology: This qualitative study adopts a multi-grounded theory approach, integrating meta-synthesis and systematic grounded theory. Data were collected through non-participatory behavioral observations in selected urban spaces (including Autism Park and Ganjali Khan Square), semi-structured interviews with parents and experts, and environmental content analysis. Data were analyzed using Atlas.Ti software through open, axial, and selective coding, leading to the identification of key concepts and the development of a final explanatory model.

Findings: The results indicate that environmental predictability, spatial legibility and order, sensory modulation (including sound, light, and thermal conditions), and the quality of physical design significantly contribute to anxiety reduction and enhanced social interaction among autistic children. In addition, low-stress environments, supportive social contexts, and diverse accessible activities improve their perceptual processes and spatial experiences.

Conclusion: This study advances existing knowledge by providing an integrated analytical framework and practical design indicators for inclusive urban spaces. It highlights the importance of applying sensory, social, and perceptual design principles to enhance accessibility, improve quality of life, and facilitate meaningful social participation of children with autism in urban public environments.

Keywords

  • Urban Third Spaces,
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD),
  • Environmental Perception,
  • Autistic Behavior,
  • Multi-Grounded Theory,
  • Kerman
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