Effects of recalling place memory on promoting cooperative behaviors in local communities

The present study aimed to develop a theoretical model that explores the influence of recalling place memory on cooperative behaviors in local communities. Five hundred ninety-five Japanese residents (mean age = 49.75 years) participated in an online survey, in which they received one of the three interventions: (1) positive memory; (2) neutral memory and (3) negative memory. Participants were instructed to recall their place memories within their living areas and provide ratings for their place attachment, emotional valence, perceived self-interest, and willingness to engage in cooperative behaviors. The results revealed that individuals who recalled positive-valenced place memories exhibited a higher willingness to engage in cooperative behaviors. Additionally, this study reveals the previously unreported mediating role of place attachment and perceived self-interest in promoting cooperative behaviors. The findings hold significance in elucidating the relationship between place memory and cooperative behaviors, offering novel insights for community management.