Psychological Impact of Abandoned Residential Buildings: A Narrative Review Based on Beck’s Cognitive Theory and Community Perception
List of Authors
Arifin, N., Aziz, D., Hamzah, M. A., Kasim, A. C., Saraf, M. H.
Keyword
Psychological Impact; Abandoned Buildings; Residential; Beck’s Theory
Abstract
Overlooked residential buildings are growing urban issues with tremendous psychological implications on local communities. This present narrative review discusses the psychological influence of such conditions based on Beck's Cognitive Theory, in which unsightly surroundings lead to cognitive distress, which causes stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The article synthesizes community perception of neglected buildings in the literature, highlighting concerns over safety hazards, lowered property values, and social deterioration. In addition to considering significant literature on urban sociology and environmental psychology, the research also includes empirical data from Klang, Selangor, with 105 residents participating in a survey questionnaire assessing their perceptions and mental health responses. Utilizing SPSS Software, findings revealed mental health and loss of pride and identity to be the most significant psychological impacts. These results confirm Beck's hypothesis that repeated exposure to neglect in the environment reinforces cognitive distortions such as helplessness and anxiety. The study emphasizes the need for targeted, psychologically informed urban interventions to revitalize deserted public spaces and restore well-being among community members. It offers valuable lessons to policymakers, city planners, and mental health professionals aiming to challenge the implicit psychological toll of urban abandonment.