Attracting adolescents through park design : an honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]

Abstract

This research explores the ability of public parks to meet the needs and wants of adolescents in regards to park design. Adolescence is the stage of life during which individuals are forming their adult personalities. They have different needs and wants than children and adults, but their needs are not being met. Across the nation, they are often seen as a "special" and undesirable age group, and therefore they do not receive the attention and support from the community that they need. This study reveals that adolescents need community involvement, and the community would benefit from including adolescents in public parks This proposal is to redesign Westside Park in Muncie, Indiana to attract adolescents by providing amenities for their needs and wants.