Young people's connection to their living space during the pandemic

Abstract

The global pandemic has provided an opportunity for contemplation regarding both territorial dynamics and human existence. The aim of this investigation was to delve into the relationship with inhabited spaces from the perspective of vulnerable youths aged 15 to 17 during the pandemic. To achieve this, a methodological approach rooted in qualitative research was employed, involving 26 young participants. This approach was preceded by immersive fieldwork, participatory workshops, and knowledge-sharing dialogues. Additionally, a participatory mapping tool was utilized. The findings unveiled a newfound significance of inhabited spaces for the youths amidst the pandemic, as they evolved into sanctuaries fostering connections with nature and facilitating novel sensory experiences. They acknowledged that prior to the health crisis, these spaces held little value, but the pandemic prompted a reevaluation, recasting them as protective havens that mitigated their vulnerabilities. While the research objective was only partially attained due to global public health uncertainties, the participants' altered perception of space engendered a novel significance, bolstering their individual capacities to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.