The article integrates social-space theory, environmental psychology, spatial capital and restorative-environment theory into a framework linking urban-rural origin, environmental perception and psychological distress.
Key findings
- The central proposition is that unequal spatial resources shape adaptation and may create “dual estrangement” for rural-origin students. Intervention should extend beyond individual counselling to spatial justice.
Why this matters globally
The framework reminds universities that mental health can reflect environment and structure, not only individual deficits. Empirical testing is required before policy adoption.
Thai researcher contribution
Shinawatra University-affiliated authors contributed to the conceptual framework on campus space and student distress.
Limitations to consider
No empirical evidence is reported. Urban-rural categories may oversimplify, and constructs require validation with socioeconomic, family, gender and institutional confounders.