Enhancing psychological well-being in high-density residential areas through biophilic environment: pathways and factors

From a biophilic perspective, exploring health-promoting environments in high-rise, high-density residential areas is an important measure for enhancing the psychological well-being of urban residents. Building upon theoretical foundations concerning the perception of biophilic living environments and their relationship to psychological well-being and nature connectivity, a research model was constructed, and structural equation modeling was applied to analyze survey data from typical residential areas in Jinan City. The results indicate that natural preference, place perception, and behavioral activities are three dimensions through which biophilic residential environments influence psychological well-being. Natural preference has the most significant impact on psychological well-being. Place perception influences behavioral activities, subsequently enhancing nature connectedness and improving psychological well-being. Key environmental elements identified include expansive views, natural colors, natural elements, multisensory experiences, a sense of refuge, and transitional spaces.