Exploration of resident's social interactions in market square and its impact on community well being

Abstract

In efforts to summon challenges that associated with people interactions cum activities among ethnic residents, this study explored users' interrelationship within three markets square in rural neighborhoods of South-west, Nigeria. This is with a view of exploring the significant relationship between resident's interactions and the community well-being. In this regards, this study highlighted the influence of market square as a typical neighborhood open space on residents' well-being. The study's quantitative approach encircled the survey questionnaire data obtained from Yorubas, Hausas, and Ibos respondents (n=382), and analyzed by SPSS statistical package (version 20). Meanwhile the qualitative data included observation of activities pattern among the three groups. The study's findings revealed that an improvement on the market place quality could better increase residents' interactions that impacts positively on residents' well-being. It is concluded that residents' well-being is a reflection of an experience manifested within the interplay of individuals and group interactions that begets social bonds and well-being. This study's findings could better equip the professionals in built environment on the essence of creating a sustainable open space and community revitalization efforts.