Teens in Public Spaces and Natural Landscapes

This chapter investigates past and current perceptions of adolescents and how these perceptions influence policies and practices around the design of public spaces. It explores the need for and benefits associated with public spaces, including natural landscapes, for adolescents. The chapter positions adolescents as a distinct landscape user group with specific spatial needs and examines ways to incorporate teens’ developing needs, both physical and psychosocial, into public space design that facilitates their connection with local communities, prioritizing their engagement with public space, civic life, and natural environments. The chapter also discusses ways to harness the power of adolescents in environmental debate and in civic and natural disaster relief efforts.