Repositioning the Role of Narrative and Narrative Inquiry in Urban Planning: A Systematic Review Based on the PRISMA Framework

Subject Areas : Urban Planning

Samaneh Mahdinezhad ¹ , Mehrnoush Hassanzadeh ² , Kianoosh Zakerhaghighi ³

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Received: 2025-07-28 Accepted : 2025-09-07 Published : 2025-09-09

Keywords: Narrative, Narrative Inquiry, Narrative Typology, Urban Planning, Systematic Review, PRISMA,

Abstract :

Narrative inquiry has emerged as a pivotal approach for analyzing human processes and experiences in urban planning. This study employs a systematic review methodology based on the PRISMA framework to explore the role and positioning of narrative and narrative inquiry in addressing contemporary urban challenges. From an initial pool of 327 English-language sources, a refined process involving rigorous inclusion/exclusion criteria, screening, and citation chaining identified 27 key references (85% journal articles, 15% books; mean publication year: 2017). Findings, supported by quantitative trends (e.g., 75% growth in narrative studies post-2016, 48% focusing on participation, Table 3), reveal that narratives—categorized as for, in, and of planning (Ameel, 2017, 2020, 2022)—enhance stakeholder dynamics, place identity, and social decision-making, aligning with Clandinin and Rosiek’s (2007) polyphonic narratives and Sandercock’s (2003) transformative typologies. The integration of these narratives fosters interdisciplinary linkages across urban studies, architecture, and sociology, yet gaps persist in inclusivity (33% addressing identity/heritage, Table 3) and technological adoption (15%, Table 6). Thematic analysis using NVivo 12 (r = 0.65 interconnectivity) highlights the need for justice-oriented and context-sensitive approaches. Narrative inquiry facilitates interdisciplinary planning methodologies, forging robust linkages among urban studies, architecture, and sociology, while identifying critical gaps, such as inclusivity and technological integration.

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