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Thesis
No place like third place: investigating the relationship between loneliness and third places in Philadelphia
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011116
Abstract
This thesis explores the complex relationship between loneliness and third places -- public spaces such as parks, libraries, and cafes -- in the urban context of Philadelphia. In the midst of a national discourse on the loneliness epidemic, this research investigates how access to and quality of third places influences feelings of social isolation among city residents. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative interviews with 14 subject matter experts, more than 370 survey responses (both online and in-person), and direct observational data from well-known public spaces. Findings highlight that third places -- especially those that are well maintained, accessible, and community-oriented -- play a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and can help mitigate loneliness. The study identifies key user archetypes, emergent themes around accessibility, funding, and technology, and offers recommendations to city leaders to enhance Philadelphia's social infrastructure. Overall, this work underscores the importance of investing in inclusive, vibrant third places as a strategy to combat urban loneliness and strengthen community bonds.
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Details
- Title
- No place like third place
- Creators
- Ryan M. Wall
- Contributors
- Katrina Johnston-Zimmerman (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- viii, 11-85 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Urban Strategy; Architecture, Design, and Urbanism; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991022064038504721