Cittaslow Şehri Olan Perşembe’de Yaşamın Bireyler Üzerindeki Çeşitli Etkilerinin Nitel Yöntemle İncelenmesi (A Qualitative Study on the Varıous Effects of Life on Individuals in the Cittaslow City of Perşembe)

Abstract

In this study, which aims to examine the physical activity habits, preferences, and urbanization process of individuals living in the Cittaslow city of Perşembe focusing on their happiness, overall mood, and quality of life a case study design, one of the qualitative research methods, was employed. Fourteen teachers aged between 40 and 50 were selected through purposive sampling and participated in the research. During the data collection process, face-to-face interview technique was used, and the data obtained were subjected to content analysis, with confidentiality principles strictly observed. As a result of the analysis, a codebook was created, and the codes were grouped under representative themes and categories, which were presented in tabular form. The findings revealed that the participants living in Perşembe were aware of the Cittaslow movement; they viewed activities such as swimming, walking, yoga, and cycling as compatible with the Cittaslow philosophy. However, they also noted that due to insufficient facility infrastructure, their motivation to engage in physical activities was low. Participants indicated that Perşembe had not fully benefited from the economic potential of the movement and emphasized the need for further efforts to enhance its sustainability. It is believed that this study will contribute to the literature on sports sociology and tourism.