The effect of the built environment on human behavior as seen through the design of low-no income housing communities in the Philippines.
There is a difference of opinion about the amount of influence that one’s surroundings has on human behavior, ranging from absolutely no impact to being the only thing that has influence on our actions. The latter notion is held by those with deterministic beliefs. Those who find architectural determinism valid believe that changes in landscaped and architectural elements of the environment will result in changes in behavior, social behavior in particular.
As architects, we have the power to influence one’s surroundings and mold environments. The psychological theory of environmental determinism states that it is the physical environment, not social conditions, that determines culture and behavior. This notion of determinism leads to the ideas that the creation of the built environment is not just about functionality and aesthetics/visual pleasure, but has a much greater influence on its occupants’ conduct and consequently the human psyche. Currently, in the Philippines, there are a number of towns resurrected by those living in poverty. Most of these houses are rundown and unsafe, therefore making the community feel uninviting and somewhat dangerous. Looking at how these homes are built and suggesting a redesign, not only of the single family home but of the community layout, may impact these poverty stricken communities in a positive way. Finding a safer yet cheap way of construction will improve a family’s comfort level. Strategically designing the layout of a community can promote positive social interaction. Through changing the living/built environment we in turn are capable of changing human interaction and behavior.
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