This text explores the relationship between the planned or built environment and the occurrence of mental ill-health. It begins by providing a broad overview of what is known about the causes of psychopathic behaviour. It then goes on to discuss the issues that arise when attempting to identify: the impact of the environment as a source of stress; the effects that the environment can have on the quality of relationships between people; and the relationship between symbolic aspects of the environment, the planning process and mental health. The book uses analysis and case studies drawn from the UK and US and contains example illustrations of the built environment.

Halpern, David

Chapter 1 Introduction and Background: What is mental illness?; What is meant by the planned environment?; Mental illness and the environment: early studies; Recurrent methodological issues. Chapter 2 Classical Environmental Stressors: What is environmental stress?; Air pollution; The seasons, heat, wind and weather; Noise; New evidence on noise: the effects from road traffic; Summary. Chapter 3 Social Environmental Stressors: What is a social environmental stressor?; Crowding; Crime, fear and the environment; Summary and refinements to the stress model. Chapter 4 Social Support and the Planned Environment: Introduction; Social networks, social support and mental health; Social factors affecting neighbouring behaviour; The physical environment and social support; Conclusion: the ideal neighbour and the ideal neighbourhood. Chapter 5 The Environment as Symbol and the Example of the High-Rise: Introduction; Labelling; Aspiration achievement discrepancies; The example of the high-rise flat. Chapter 6 The Planning Process: Introduction; Relocation and slum-clearance; Resident participation in the planning process; Case study: demolition!. Chapter 7 Improving Mental Health Through the Environment - A Case Study: Design and methodology; About the estate; The intervention; The impact of the changes; The impact on residents' mental health; Summary. Chapter 8 Mental Illness and the Planned Environment: Is there a causal relationship between mental illness and the planned environment?; Broader implications.