Mental mapping, Viewing the urban landscapes of the mind

No two mental maps are identical. A mental map is a unique, personal and selective representation of reality. A mental map is daily used as a reference for orientation and movement throughout a territory (routing), but also for associative processes and judgement (valuation). Our mental maps become more complex over time when we incorporate information derived from indirect as well as direct experience. We form mental images of places where we have never been ourselves. A mental map is based upon personal experience with an area, but by lack of this upon indirect information from the mass media or a certain reputation of the area in general. An extensive media attention can leave us with greatly distorted impressions of the actual situations. One of the most famous mental mapping researchers is Kevin Lynch. However, the cultural significance of the city image was not the main focus of his investigations. Mental mapping as a research instrument uses visualization of different maps of individuals within groups with specific characteristics. In this way insight can be gained in the more collective carriers of urban identity and the general functioning of an urban territory for specific groups. WSA consultants have developed a specific method based on the instrument of mental mapping. In thi