Psychological Adaptation of Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Shaded Green Spaces in Malaysia

This study clarifies the perceptive and adaptive mechanisms involved in outdoor thermal comfort. The method of the study was through microclimate measurement coupled with systematic interviews of urban park users to identify the impacts of weather and personal factors on respondents' perceptual and sensation estimations. The findings on the significant influences of microclimate parameters and personal factors on the participants' perceptions of outdoor urban places are discussed. This study shows the respondents' thermal adaptation from physiological and psychological perspectives. The significance of the findings showed the importance of a sustainable urban park for continued use by future communities. (C) 2012 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.