%D 2024
%L theses_frw4553
%A Muriel Schwarze
%X Parents are responsible for their children and influence their development by setting rules based on individual judgements. Also, their experience with mobility affects school-aged children’s movement between places and their possibilities to participate in the community. This paper aimed to analyze parents’ perceptions of mobility and suggestions for enhancements in Groningen, the Netherlands. Twelve semi-structured interviews provided an in-depth understanding of the topic and added to the existing quantitative results of previous research. By analyzing the transportation network and road design, accessibility, and traffic safety, it stood out that parents were mostly concerned about specific road characteristics and other traffic participants. Since they mainly used active modes of transport, they proposed linked ideas such as a decreased distance to activities, separated bicycle paths, and restrictions on motorized vehicles. This might reduce children’s dependence on their parents and their mobility restrictions, and increase their community participation. Planners and policymakers should consider these suggestions in their designs to create places that complement children’s needs. Accordingly, this strengthens their development, their role as a citizen, and aligns with the UN Convention of the Right of the Child (1989).
%T Parental Perceptions on Freedom of Mobility and Their Children's Participation in Groningen's Community