Validation of a Cultural Planning Model in Tehran Neighborhoods with Emphasis on Public Participation
Keywords:
Cultural planning, Public participation, Social capital, Neighborhood management, Social sustainabilityAbstract
This study aimed to validate a neighborhood-based cultural planning model driven by public participation to provide a practical and locally adapted framework for enhancing social cohesion and sustainability in Tehran. A descriptive–quantitative and applied research design was used. The statistical population included all residents of Tehran’s neighborhoods. Using Cochran’s formula, a sample size of 384 residents was selected through random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire based on semi-structured interviews and literature review. The instrument’s validity was confirmed by face validity, and reliability was verified through composite reliability. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling with Smart PLS. Results showed that neighborhood management structures and their interrelations had a positive, significant effect on cultural planning (β=0.244, t=2.49). Social participation (β=0.349, t=3.52) and strategic management planning (β=0.312, t=2.89) also significantly strengthened cultural planning. Cultural planning positively influenced performance evaluation of neighborhood management (β=0.240, t=2.89). Additionally, socio-cultural capacity building (β=0.293, t=3.06) and awareness of socio-cultural participation (β=0.400, t=4.38) positively impacted performance evaluation. Finally, performance evaluation strongly affected social cohesion, interaction, and sustainability (β=0.804, t=23.76). The GOF index of 0.634 indicated strong model fit. The validated model offers a practical roadmap for Tehran’s municipal managers to strengthen cultural planning at the neighborhood level through public engagement, transparency, accountability, and trust-building, ultimately promoting social cohesion and sustainable community development.
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