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Measuring the Psychological Benefits of Green Space Usage: Development and Validation of the Green Space Use Satisfaction Scale

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  • Myeong Chul Ko

    (Hanbat National University)

  • Jeong Hee Lee

    (National Institute of Forest Science)

Abstract

Green spaces are widely considered to be critical resources for maintaining human health and individual wellbeing. Despite the growing interest in features of green spaces for wellbeing, the beneficial effects of green spaces have not been fully investigated, in part due to the lack of a proper measurement scale that captures the perceived multidimensional value of green space usage. To address this measurement gap, using a needs satisfaction and bottom-up spillover approach, this study develops and validates a multidimensional measurement scale, the Green Space Use Satisfaction Scale (GUSS), for assessing comprehensive and diverse experiences of green space usage. Using data from two surveys conducted in South Korea (N = 314 and N = 709), this study presents a validated scale consisting of 25 items with 5 factors (social, aesthetic, growth, knowledge, and health needs) through a series of measurement development procedures. All sub-dimensions of the measurement scale are positively and significantly associated with both citizen satisfaction with the use of green spaces and perceived mental wellbeing. Theoretical and practical implications for future research are discussed in the conclusion.

Suggested Citation

  • Myeong Chul Ko & Jeong Hee Lee, 2025. "Measuring the Psychological Benefits of Green Space Usage: Development and Validation of the Green Space Use Satisfaction Scale," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 177(2), pages 599-616, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:soinre:v:177:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s11205-025-03536-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s11205-025-03536-7
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