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Place-based stressors associated with industry and air pollution.

Authors :
Kondo MC
Gross-Davis CA
May K
Davis LO
Johnson T
Mallard M
Gabbadon A
Sherrod C
Branas CC
Source :
Health & place [Health Place] 2014 Jul; Vol. 28, pp. 31-7. Date of Electronic Publication: 2014 Apr 12.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Exposure to air pollution and its sources is increasingly viewed as a psychosocial stress, however its nature is not understood. This article explores the role of the concept of place on risk perception and community stress within data collected from eight focus groups in Philadelphia, USA. Discussions focused on air pollution, a nearby oil refinery, health, and a proposal for air monitoring. We present a framework of place-based elements of risk perception that includes place identity, stigma and social control. Our findings indicate that air pollution contributes to physical and psychosocial conditions that act as community-level social stressors. Findings also suggest that programs which seek to change behaviors and gather or spread information on issues such as pollution and other environmental concerns will be challenged unless they directly address: (1) the public׳s identification with a place or industry, (2) immediate environmental stressors such as abandonment, waste and odors, and (3) public perceptions of lack of social control and fear of displacement.<br /> (Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1873-2054
Volume :
28
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Health & place
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
24721738
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2014.03.004