Estudo de métodos de classificação não-linear dos atributos do bairro a partir da percepção de satisfação dos moradores

Abstract

This study investigates urban environment attributes based on residents’ perceptions, focusing on resident satisfaction as an indicator of urban quality of life. Satisfaction аith one’s neighborhood is an important multidisciplinarв concept related to qualitв of life, serving as a mediator between the physical and social environment and individual well-being. It is observed that the increasing urbanization demands a deeper understanding of citizens’ needs in order to plan satisfactory neighborhoods and cities. Therefore, the objective of this thesis is to analyze and classify neighborhood attributes based on residents’ satisfaction perceptions, utilizing non-linear classification methods, thus contributing information that may be relevant for urban planning and urban quality of life. Following a bibliometric analysis to understand how the research positions itself within the literature, a survey method was adopted. The research was conducted through an online questionnaire, with a sample consisting of 283 individuals residing in cities in the State of Paraná. Responses were measured using a seven-point Likert scale, describing satisfaction with the neighborhood, the performance of attributes, and the importance attributed to them. Data were collected on sociodemographic variables and the urban environment, including physical and social conditions, service availability, environmental aspects, and transportation and circulation. For data analysis, approaches derived from product and service quality assessment were applied. Non-linear analyses were conducted to explore the relationships between satisfaction and various urban attributes, as well as the importance attributed to them. To deepen the understanding of variable behavior, the sample was stratified based on income. The results indicated a non-linear relationship between satisfaction and the variables, contrasting with various studies that adopt a linear assumption. Through a process of analyzing the applied tools, a new classification method for the variables was developed based on the Kano model. For the analyzed population, it was found that, for low-income residents, emphasis is placed on commerce, supermarkets, and schools. In contrast, for high-income residents, the absence of crime and vandalism, as well as security, are prioritized. For both groups, environmental and sanitation aspects are also prioritized. These factors were classified as basic. Among the attractive factors for low-income residents, aspects related to social interaction and accessibility were considered important, while for high-income residents, the focus is more on commerce and supermarkets, distances to schools and recreational areas, and bike lanes. It is understood that neutral factors do not reflect the reality of the respondents, and unidimensional factors exhibit linear behavior. With this understanding, improvements can be promoted that meet the diverse expectations of residents and, consequently, contribute to enhancing the quality of life in cities. The research contributes to a comprehension of the dynamics influencing neighborhood satisfaction, highlighting the need to understand which attributes genuinely enhance residents’ satisfaction and, in turn, the quality of the urban environment.