Introduction
This study aims to investigate the sociological dynamics of public spaces, with a particular emphasis on a nearby public park. “How do social interactions and behaviors in a public park reflect broader sociological patterns and structures?” is the research question that will direct this investigation. The purpose of this inquiry is to distill the core of social norms and collective behavior in a public situation that is comparatively unstructured. The study also aims to comprehend the possible variations in these social patterns during the day and week.
Significance of Topic
Interaction and behavior in the park have sociological implications, as public parks act as social microcosms where different groups interact. These exchanges provide a window into larger cultural practices, social conventions, and hierarchies. Analyzing a public park can shed light on societal norms, shared ideals, and unwritten standards of behavior (Müller, 2020). Additionally, this study advances knowledge of how public spaces aid or hinder social inclusion and cohesion. Sociologists who study public areas, social norms, and community relations must comprehend these processes.
Description of Method
The study employed a field-based ethnographic method of research. Immersion observation and thorough documentation of social phenomena in their natural environments are critical components of ethnographic field research (Müller, 2020). In order to record various interactions, observations were made at various times throughout several days for a total of three hours. Discreet field notes were recorded to guarantee that standard behavior patterns were noted.
The study made it possible to objectively examine interactions without altering the social dynamics of the park, as it focused on non-participant observation. Observing the small nuances of social interactions using less invasive methods has made the study more difficult. Observing the minor nuances of social interactions with less invasive study methods could be difficult, but this tactic made it possible (Müller, 2020). The study also provides an explanation of ethnography, which is described as the observation of certain processes by mobile people and the creation of notes.
Findings
Distinct patterns in park usage and social behavior were found throughout the observation period. Delineating space usage according to age groups and activities was one of the most noteworthy observations. Even though they enjoyed strolling pathways and seats, older people were usually observed in couples or alone. On the other hand, playground spaces were where kids and families were most likely to be found playing and engaging in group activities.
The way that various groups interacted also followed a clear pattern. Most group contact was placed within the group, resulting in discrete social bubbles with minimal intergroup communication. This trend draws attention to how social segmentation occurs in public spaces.
Nevertheless, these imperceptible walls dissolved in some places, such as the food kiosk, making quick but critical encounters between various groups possible. Social norms of segregation seemed to be defied in these places. They served as social levelers, suggesting that the layout and purpose of particular park areas can significantly impact how people interact with one another.
Reflection on Design and Ethical Considerations
Considering the research plan, ethnographic fieldwork was the best approach for this study, as it allowed for detailed observation of natural behavior in a public place. Nevertheless, there were design limitations, as the observational design of the study did not allow for capturing the innermost feelings and intentions of the participants. Surveys and interviews could be used to close this gap in future studies from an ethical point of view. It was important to observe in a manner that did not violate personal space, and the ethical issues related to consent were less severe because the location was public. However, throughout the investigation, privacy and non-intrusiveness remained top priorities regarding ethics.
Reference
Müller, F. (2020). Methods and aspects of field research. In Design ethnography epistemology and methodology (pp. 31–76). Springer. Web.