Effects of changing landscape on psychophysiological activities

Today, urban and rural landscapes are undergoing rapid transformation due to natural and manmade factors. These landscape changes have significant effects on the psychological and physiological health of individuals; differences in landscape elements determine stress levels, mental well-being and physiological responses. This thesis aims to examine the effects of changing landscapes on psychophysiological activities. In the experimental application with 150 participants, the pupil movements, sensory survey results and subjective feedbacks of individuals were analyzed by showing landscape images of the same area as it has transformed over the years. In this context, examining the effects of landscape changes over time on individuals' psychological states and physiological responses in a multifaceted way contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of environmental factors on human health and quality of life. This once again emphasizes the impact and importance of the landscape architecture profession on human health. The findings revealed that landscape change has significant effects on individuals' psychological states and physiological responses. This study emphasizes that landscape is not only a visual element, but also an environmental factor that affects mental and physical health, and draws attention to the necessity of human-centered landscape designs. Supported by a psychophysiological approach, this study points to the importance of sustainable landscape planning that will adapt to changing environmental conditions. In this respect, the thesis provides a scientific basis for the user-oriented design approach in landscape architecture and will serve as a pioneering source for future interdisciplinary research.