Geographical analysis of the effect place (objective environment) on the sense of Happiness of Ahvaz citizens based on the happy city approach

Geography also examines the relationship between humans and the environment therefore, in the database of this science, addressing the environmental happiness of the citizens of Ahvaz as the seventh metropolis of Iran is an important issue. The present study is theoretical-applied and methodologically "descriptive-analytical" in the field of behavioral geography. The tool used in this study is Oxford Happiness Standard Questionnaire. The statistical population includes the citizens of Ahvaz (both men and women) in the age range of 15 years and above, which is equal to 887,280 people. The sample size is 385 persons. Based on findings, the pattern of distribution of Invigorating spaces among these neighborhoods is not a justice-oriented pattern. Physical and leisure environment is effective in the sense of happiness of citizens and the level of happiness of the citizens in the planned neighborhoods that are richer in terms of joyful spaces (shahraknaft, Kianpars, Gate Bostan), compared to the dilapidated neighborhoods (Ameri) and the suburbs (manbae ab, koye Alavi) which in this respect they are poorer, higher. The objective conditions of the urban environment affect the sense of happiness of citizens and the spatial difference in having happy spaces leads to the difference in the level of happiness of the citizens. The objective environment has an effect on creating happy urban spaces and improving the quality of life indicators of citizens, and in contrast, the happiness of urban spaces makes spaces and places attractive for the presence and activity of citizens. Finally, appropriate suggestions are provided.