Analyzing the Dimensionality of Place Attachment and Its Relationship with Residential Satisfaction in New Cities: The Case of Sadra, Iran

Abstract

During the recent decades, new cities have been set up around Iranian main cities, after exclusive pre-planning and investigations. However, no significant research studies have concentrated on the level of place attachment (PA) and residential satisfaction (RS) of those residing in these areas, with regard to the existing apparent differences compared to older cities. The present study took advantage from the data gathered in Sadra new city initially to examine PA as a second order factor and then, to assess its relationship with RS. To do so, a survey was conducted on 201 respondents from Sadra new city and confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) were used to explore research model. The results of these analyses confirmed that PA as a second order factor consists of four identified dimensions, namely: place identity, place dependence, place social bonding, and place affect. Moreover, SEM analysis indicated appropriate level of goodness of fit demonstrated by the model proposed in this study, showing positive and significant effect of PA variable on RS.