Effects of soundscape on Chinese children's social interaction measured by self-reported behavioral expectations

Abstract

Soundscape research has achieved some progress in enhancing the quality of urban space to support mixed uses. However, there is little evidence of promoting individual development and social relationship. Accordingly, the present study investigated the effects of soundscape on children's social interaction measured by self-reported behavioral expectations (Interaction, Nonparticipation, Avoiding) in the laboratory settings. Environmental exposure conditions were eight soundscape stimuli and one control condition (No sound), presented alongside visual recordings from a schoolyard or an urban park. Results showed that the soundscapes had significant effects on children's behavioral expectations and these effects did not differ significantly between the schoolyard and the urban park. Compared to No sound, Children's sounds and Nature sounds predisposed children to interactions, while Animal sounds and Classical music elevated children's intention to stay alone in the environment. Comparisons to the control group aside, correspondence analyses suggested the relationships between various soundscapes and behavioral expectations categories: Human movement sounds, Children's sounds, Adults' sounds, and Nature sounds were associated with Interaction; Animal sounds and Classical music were associated with Nonparticipation; Motorized transport sounds and Electro-mechanical sounds were associated with Avoiding. These findings on children's behavioral expectations indicate that the soundscape can influence children's decisions about contact and interaction with others in the environment, thereby fostering or impeding children from establishing and maintaining social relationships.