Psychological Empowerment and Mental Health Promotion through Toponymic Culture: Addressing Anxiety and Emotional Stress in Community Development
Linhua WuAbstract
Objective
This study investigates the psychological empowerment effects of Haixi's toponymic culture from a cultural anthropology perspective, with particular focus on its potential to alleviate anxiety symptoms, emotional disorders, and negative emotional stress. The research examines how place names as cultural carriers influence community psychological well-being and drive sustainable regional development while promoting mental health.
Subjects and Methods
A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining ethnographic fieldwork and psychological measurement. The study involved 12 months of participatory observation in 8 Haixi communities, in-depth interviews with 45 cultural bearers and residents (including individuals with identified anxiety disorders), and surveys with 320 tourists. Assessment tools included the Psychological Empowerment Scale, Cultural Identity Inventory, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).
Results
Haixi's place names demonstrated significant psychological empowerment effects, with 78% of respondents reporting enhanced cultural identity (β=0.69, p<0.01) and 35% reduction in anxiety symptoms. Tourism development integrating toponymic culture achieved 40% higher visitor satisfaction and significantly improved mental health indicators. Communities engaged in cultural activities showed 28% lower stress levels and 45% improvement in psychological well-being among those with emotional disorders.
Conclusions
Toponymic culture serves as an effective psychological resource that promotes community well-being while addressing anxiety and emotional stress. The integrated development model demonstrates that cultural empowerment and mental health promotion can be mutually reinforcing, offering significant implications for regional development strategies incorporating psychological support mechanisms.
Corresponding Author
Linhua Wu, Department of Chinese Language and Literature, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China.