Environment, Social Spaces and Sustainability

Profile of the research cluster

Focus of this research cluster is the interplay of human beings with their environments. The term environment is seen broad and encompasses both the natural- and socio-cultural environments. Core of this cluster are research questions with a strong interdisciplinary research- and application approach. We aim to understand the interplay of human beings with their immediate environments in greater depths, we examine the impact of the environment on people, their behavior and the resulting actions. It is clear that the environment has an impact on the perception and behavior of human beings and we design and influence the environment based on our perceptions, experiences and behavior. Questions on sustainable development paths are new areas of research developing in this area.

We also focus on the field of art and coping and embed this into interdisciplinary research. Special focus is given to psychosocial aspects from the field of disease- and stress related coping. Herein, we mainly deal with evaluation projects, in order to develop relevant treatment concepts and to assess existing concepts and projects. Scientific disciplines include psychological, psychotherapeutic, social- and media sciences.

Emission control: Core of this research stream, in cooperation with environmental scientists, is the analysis of stress responses related to wind turbines. Herein, we examine whether the current licensing procedure of wind turbines provides sufficient foresight and prevention for the protection of nearby residents. The visual effects of wind turbines, likely to result in stress levels, is also examined.

Technical assistance systems: Focus is on technical innovation in medical technology and the use of technical assistance systems in ambulatory care of the elderly in rural areas.

Social work in rural areas: demographic change leads to gaps in medical and social support mechanisms in rural areas. Whilst the above mentioned technical assistance systems may provide some support, its application in a combination with a communal oriented elderly care support system may provide a more comprehensive effect. Cross-generational projects may serve as an example. This focus is still in its infancy and continue to grow further based on the findings of our current research.

Occupational-, living- and environmental factors: The effects of occupational-, living- and environmental factors have a key influence on individual health. These are examined by using practical examples.

The research stream meets the concern to provide evidence-based approaches for artistic or art therapeutic procedures. A number of profile features of MSH are reflected herein: the inter-professional conjunction of health care professions, the application oriented approach on current challenges of the health care sector, the inclusion of psychosocial and interdisciplinary aspect of clinical work and the utilization of art- or art therapeutic procedures in different health care concepts. Our research relates to both clinical fields, such as psycho-oncology or gerontology, but also to external (non-)clinical fields, situated in the rehabilitation and prevention sectors. Possible interfaces between clinical and non-clinical sectors are also examined.