Social Class and Urban Spaces: A Cross-Cultural Study on the Stereotyped Perception of Urban Spaces Related to Social Classes in Italy and Peru

This master’s thesis investigates the relationship between social class and perceptions of urban spaces in two cultural contexts: Italy and Peru. The study examines whether stereotypes associated with social class extend beyond individuals to shape perceptions of physical urban environments, such as neighborhoods and urban areas.

Using a quantitative experimental design, 327 participants (174 Peruvians and 153 Italians) completed structured online surveys. The research explored how participants associated social and psychological attributes with residents of different socioeconomic statuses and how these perceptions were projected onto the spaces they inhabit.

The findings revealed significant cultural differences. In the Peruvian sample, poorer individuals were often associated with warmth and friendliness, whereas wealthier individuals were perceived as more capable. Italian participants showed similar tendencies but placed stronger emphasis on individualistic traits. Results also confirmed that stereotypes about social class extend to urban environments, influencing how neighborhoods of different socioeconomic status are perceived.

Overall, the study highlights the role of cultural context in shaping spatial stereotypes and contributes to research on social cognition, stereotyping, and environmental perception.