Physical Environment Theories
The Natural Environment
The Built Environment
Place Attachment
Implications for Social Work Practice
100

What do stimulation theories say about how the physical environment affects human behavior?

What is ... the idea that sensory input from the environment influences thinking, emotions, social interactions, and well-being?

100

What is biophilia, and why is it important for mental health?

What is ... the innate human connection to nature, which promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves well-being?

100

What is the built environment, and how does it differ from the natural environment?

What is ... the human-made physical space, including buildings, roads, and cities, as opposed to natural landscapes and ecosystems?

100

What is place attachment, and how does it develop?

What is ... the emotional bond that individuals form with places due to personal experiences, memories, and social connections?

100

How can social workers assess the impact of the physical environment on clients?

What is ... conducting environmental assessments, observing living conditions, and addressing safety, accessibility, and well-being concerns?

200

How do control theories explain the relationship between people and their physical space?

What is ... the theory that suggests humans need control over their environment, with factors like privacy, personal space, territoriality, and crowding affecting behavior?

200

Define ecotherapy and explain how it helps improve well-being.

What is ... a therapeutic approach that uses nature-based activities, like gardening or hiking, to improve mental and physical health?

200

How do urban designs affect social interactions in communities?

What is ... the influence of walkability, public spaces, and neighborhood layout on fostering or discouraging community engagement?

200

How does place identity contribute to a person’s sense of self?

What is ... the way a person defines themselves based on their connection to a particular place, influencing their values and cultural identity?

200

What strategies can social workers use to create accessible spaces for individuals with disabilities?

What are ... advocating for universal design, policy changes, and improved accessibility in public and private spaces?

300

What is the main idea behind behavior settings theories?

What is ... the idea that specific environments create predictable patterns of behavior that influence individuals more than their personal traits?

300

How does environmental degradation affect marginalized communities?

What is ... the increased exposure of low-income communities to pollution, unsafe housing, and lack of green spaces, leading to poorer health outcomes?

300

Define healing environments and name two key features that improve well-being.

What are ... environments designed to promote health and wellness, including natural light, reduced noise, soothing colors, and views of nature?

300

What psychological effects can displacement have on individuals?

What are ... stress, anxiety, depression, loss of identity, and instability caused by being forced to relocate?

300

How does environmental justice relate to social work advocacy?

What is ... the fight for equal access to clean air, water, and safe living conditions, especially in marginalized communities?

400

Define ecocritical theories and give one example of their application in social work.

What are ... theories that examine how human behavior impacts the environment, emphasizing environmental justice, such as advocating for clean air and water in low-income communities?

400

What are some benefits of exposure to nature for human well-being?

What are ... reduced stress, improved mood, better cognitive function, stronger social connections, and increased physical health?

400

What role does technology play in shaping the built environment?

What is ... the integration of smart cities, energy-efficient buildings, and remote workspaces to enhance accessibility and sustainability?

400

How does territoriality influence human behavior in shared spaces?

What is ... the way people claim, defend, and personalize spaces, affecting their sense of ownership and control?

400

What is the person-in-environment perspective, and how does it guide social work interventions?

What is ... the framework that considers how an individual’s social and physical environment affects their behavior and well-being?

500

What are the four main concepts of control theories, and how do they impact personal behavior?

What are ... privacy, personal space, territoriality, and crowding, which affect stress, security, and social interactions?

500

Explain how the natural environment can be used as a therapeutic tool in social work.

What is ... integrating outdoor counseling, horticultural therapy, or mindfulness in nature to support mental health?

500

Explain the concept of universal design and why it is important for accessibility.

What is ... the practice of creating environments that are usable by all people, regardless of age or ability, by incorporating features like ramps, tactile paving, and adjustable workstations?

500

What are the social and emotional impacts of losing one's primary territory (such as being evicted or displaced)?

What are ... feelings of grief, trauma, social isolation, and instability, leading to disruptions in well-being and relationships?

500

What role can social workers play in advocating for sustainable environmental policies?

What is ... promoting green initiatives, supporting climate justice, educating communities on sustainability, and influencing policy changes?