Impact of Recreational Parks on Social Interaction: A Study of the Factors Related to Interaction Among Visitors with Special Reference to Selected Examples in Colombo District

Abstract

Recreational parks are considered as important public spaces in urban areas which enhance the quality of life by means of improving health conditions, social interaction and recreation among urban population. Several recreational parks have been established recently in Colombo District as a part of physical development implemented by the government after the end of civil war. Although these parks seem to be used frequently by the urban population, it is necessary to ensure that the objectives of these establishments are achieved. This study aims at examinimg the social interaction among urban people who use these parks, which is one of the objectives and is expected to be improved. The primary objective of this study is to find out the impact of recreational parks on social interaction in relation to some important factors related to interaction among visitors of these parks. Identifying the factors that should be improved to enhance social interaction is the secondary objective of this study. The study was carried out with special reference to three (03) selected recreational parks located in Colombo District. A total of 150 individuals (50 from each park) from different age groups were selected as participants among the people who visit the selected parks. Stratified random sampling method was used to select the participants. Primary data were collected using a researcher made questionnaire regarding the factors related to interaction such as distance from residence to park, purpose of visiting, opportunity to improve interaction among own relations, opportunity to build up new relationships, opportunity for communication among visitors, and use of built spaces and landscape elements. Data were analysed descriptively. Social interaction among visitors was identified in different levels in relation to the factors considered. Further, some aspects related to the above factors were identified to be improved for enhancing social interaction.