The Effect of Natural Space from Parks on The Perception of Wellbeing Among Latinos Of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina

This dissertation embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the intricate dynamics surrounding access to and appreciation of natural environments within urban parks among the Latine population in Mecklenburg County. The central goal is to explore how Latine communities engage with urban natural spaces, affecting their perceived well-being. Through rigorous research, it investigates how human-environmental interactions in urban green spaces influence perceptions of well-being and their potential to mitigate disparities in access to such spaces and health outcomes. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of the interplay between urban green spaces, cultural perspectives, and well-being within the Latine community, addressing broader issues of environmental equity and health disparities. It enhances the geography literature by examining human-environmental interactions in urban parks within ascending Latine communities in the southern region. By integrating Michel Foucault's power and biopolitics theories and Landscape Theory. The research sheds light on the mechanisms of social control, access, and the cultural dimensions of landscapes. This research has implications for policy development, urban planning, and environmental management, aiming to promote equitable access to urban green spaces such as parks and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities.