This study investigated how individuals perceive the physical environments, behaviors, and emotional meanings associated with their homes through key memories and experiences. Data were collected from 132 college students, and the results were as follows: Firstly, while many memories were associated with the outdoor environment, the intensity of memories was higher for the indoor environment. In early childhood, awareness of the yard and complex surroundings was significant, whereas, after adolescence, awareness of the local neighborhood and indoor environments increased. Participants described their living environments using various senses, including sight, hearing, and smell. Secondly, behavioral elements primarily centered on play and leisure activities, with memorable experiences often linked to unusual routines. Most relationship behaviors in indoor spaces were recalled with great interest, excluding play, leisure activities and meal gatherings. Interactions were mainly with family, and the number of family members positively influenced relationship behaviors. Thirdly, emotional elements expressed included joy, comfort, nostalgia, and the preciousness of time spent in these spaces. Regarding meaning, participants emphasized the significance of long-term residence, play, social interactions, and the physical environments themselves. Future domestic housing policies should prioritize emotional elements and locality that reflect the life stories of individual residents.
Minah Lee (Sun,) studied this question.