Congruence between space preferences and sociodemographic structure in Barbados, West Indies: the use of cognitive studies in third world urban planning and development

Abstract

This paper reviews the implications of a research project which sought to examine the congruence existing between patterns of sociodemographic structure and change, and the spatial perceptions of residents in Barbados, West Indies. Drawing on this empirical evidence, the pressing need for the development of soundly based and environmentally appropriate urban and regional development planning systems in developing countries is stressed, especially frameworks which explicitly recognise the need to harness the initiatives and aspirations of individuals via perception studies and other methods. The implications of the work are also assessed in relation to the current debate concerning the academic role and efficacy of behavioural and perception geography.