Investigation the Speed of Pedestrians on Experience Mental Time Perception (Case Study: 17shahrivar Street, Tehran)

Subject Areas : Space Ontology International Journal

Maryam Ghalambor Dezfuly ^{1 *} , Hedieh Kasraei ²

1 - Department of Urban Planning, Pardis Branch, Islamic Azad University, Pardis, Iran.
2 - Department of Urban Planning, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

Received: 2024-10-28 Accepted : 2025-03-13

Keywords: Pedestrian, Perception, Mental Time, 17shahrivar Street,

Abstract :

The perception of mental time among pedestrians is an often-overlooked aspect of urban planning and design, yet it plays a crucial role in how individuals experience and navigate urban spaces. This study investigates the relationship between the physical-spatial structure of urban environments and pedestrians' perceptions of time during their movement. Specifically, it explores how variations in speed and stopping behavior shaped by the physical and functional attractiveness of locations affect mental time perception. Employing the continuous/stop-move (CSM) walking technique, data were collected from a sample of 20 pedestrians (10 males and 10 females) along the 17 Shahrivar pedestrian street in Tehran. The findings reveal that female participants typically moved at a speed of 0.5 m/s and engaged in stops for various reasons, including viewing local attractions and shopping, with durations varying significantly based on the type of location. Conversely, male participants exhibited similar speeds but different stopping patterns, often related to window shopping and rest breaks. This analysis highlights the influence of gender and environmental context on mental time perception, demonstrating that the experience of time is not uniform but rather shaped by the interaction between the individual and their surroundings. These results align with existing literature that underscores the importance of physical design in shaping pedestrian experiences. The implications of this study extend to urban planning practices, suggesting that a nuanced understanding of mental time perception can enhance the design of pedestrian-friendly environments. By integrating psychological insights into urban design, planners can create spaces that not only facilitate movement but also enrich the overall pedestrian experience.

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