Urban Environment as a Field of Sensory Socialization of Youth: Actor-Network Analysis of Sensory Actors

Abstract

The formation of identity among modern youth in urban spaces is a dynamic process of socialization, involving constant sensory interaction with the urban environment. Contemporary urban sociology is dominated by a primarily visual approach, ignoring complex sensory experiences. There is a systemic gap in understanding how sensory actors (sounds, smells, visual and tactile stimuli) function as active elements of the socialization network.The study's methodological framework is a synthesis of actor-network theory (ANT) for analyzing these relationships and experience economy theory for assessing the value of sensory experiences. The aim of this article is to identify and systematize key sensory actors, analyze the mechanisms of their interactions, and determine correlations between sensory stimuli and the emotional and behavioral responses of young people.The study is based on sensory survey and mapping methods. The sample consisted of 200 respondents in St. Petersburg aged 18 to 25, 60% of whom were university students and 40% were beginning professionals. Data collection and analysis were performed using Python for statistical processing and Gephi for network visualization.The results show that key factors include natural landscapes (75% of respondents cited them as the main factor in positive perceptions), architectural aesthetics (68%), and the sound environment. A strong correlation (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) was found between background noise levels and young people's desire to visit certain public spaces. Based on these data, a model of youth sensory socialization was developed.The practical significance of the study lies in the development of specific recommendations for city authorities and planners: the creation of “sensory zones” in urban spaces (quiet areas near parks, acoustic installations in courtyards) and the integration of natural and aesthetically significant objects into residential areas to improve the well-being and social integration of young city residents.