Q-methodological exploration of environmental characteristics affecting residential security in hybrid blocks: a focus on Beijing

Chinese cities have experienced rapid expansion in recent years, resulting in the emergence of hybrid neighborhoods characterized by buildings of varying ages, functions, and resident demographics. The distinctive environmental features hold significant research value for understanding their impact on residents’ perceptions of safety. However, research on the security of such neighborhoods remains limited. Q-methodology combines quantitative and qualitative research methods and is suitable for the study of hybrid blocks with complex factors affecting residents’ safety assessment. Three typical hybrid blocks were selected for the experiment. The findings point to six key environmental characteristics affecting residents’ sense of security within the scope of the study. Additionally, different social groups and living environments shape distinct perceptions and standards of security. This work contributes to the study of residential safety under hybrid blocks in China, enriching the existing crime prevention theory and improving its applicability and effectiveness. It can also help urban planners and policymakers reduce the tendency to overemphasize complex external environmental factors and provide a valuable reference to residential safety awareness in hybrid blocks.