Mental Maps as a Measurement Tool in Qualitative Field Research: Their Origin, Con-struction and Application in Research on the Sense of Safety in Urban Areas

Urban space, as a dynamic social construct, is the subject of extensive scientific research, especially in the context of perceptions of its safety. This article presents the use of mental maps as a research tool in qualitative field research aimed at diagnosing the sense of security in cities. The primary purpose of this article is to develop a comprehensive methodology for constructing mental maps and implementing them in research on human relations with urban space. The key stages of the research process are described, such as designing the measurement tool, selecting appropriate graphical methods, creating procedures for collecting and analyzing empirical data, and interpreting results. Critical aspects of using mental maps, such as their subjectivity, difficulties in standardization, and the need to integrate them with other research methods, are also addressed. Mental maps enable the visualization of subjective perceptions of space, combining the potential of qualitative and spatial analysis. The text highlights the utility of mental maps in identifying places perceived as unsafe while taking into account cultural and demographic factors. This article makes a significant contribution to the social sciences by providing practical guidance on using mental maps in the study of contemporary spatial challenges.