Mental Maps as a Method of Study of the Neighborhood Image

This work is devoted to the method of mental maps and its cognitive abilities in studying the image of a neighborhood. The purpose of this study was to determine how the area is perceived depending on the time of residence and the socio-demographic characteristics of its inhabitants and how the above factors are reflected in the mental maps and the data obtained. The first section of the work is of a theoretical nature and refers to a brief overview of the history of the mental maps method development through the prism of sociology of the city. The second chapter is devoted to the design of a study with an application of semi-structured interviews and the mental maps technique. Within the cabinet part of this study, secondary data analysis was carried out. The final part of this work is devoted to the analysis of empirical data and the author's reflection on the results obtained. The result of this research work provides an understanding of what categories and objects the area’s perception is built by two groups of informants, their space consumption practices are described, and a conclusion is made regarding the cognitive possibilities of the mental maps technique and its limitations. Key words: mental maps, perception of space, neighborhood image, social mapping.