Exploring a Sense of Self-in-Place to Explain the Impulse for Urban Sprawl

Two studies were conducted to examine the perceptual dimensions underlying descriptions of residential choice related to urban sprawl. Study I compares interview data generated by residents living in two different locations. Dominant and shared themes characterizing respondents’ “sense of self-in-place” suggests that eight themes undergird depictions and perceptions of residential location. Study II extends these findings by focusing on individuals who have recently taken up residence on the urban fringe. Analysis reveals a seven-dimension schema for housing preferences in line with reasons respondents from the first study used for wanting to relocate. Findings are discussed in relationship to the management of urban sprawl, the nature of appeals directed at potential homebuyers, and the protection of natural resources.