Paying lip service? An investigation into the spatial mismatch between younger and older adults' streetscape perceptual preference and visitation behavior

Do intergenerationally claimed spatial preferences necessarily translate into actual visitation behaviors? This study aims to uncover the phenomenon of “dissonance between perception and behavior” among younger and older adults in Shenzhen's streetscapes—specifically, the spatial mismatch and generational differences between perceived satisfaction and actual visitation patterns. Using computer vision techniques and online surveys grounded in Attention Restoration Theory and the Person-Environment Fit model, we quantitatively assessed pedestrian age groups from street view imagery, as well as generational preferences and real-world visitation patterns. We then explored the driving factors behind this mismatch from both experiential and structural perspectives. The results revealed that older adults exhibit a more pronounced dissonance between streetscape satisfaction and visitation than younger individuals. On streets with lower satisfaction scores, the two generational groups show different streetscape visitation patterns. For younger adults, floor area ratio, Shannon diversity index, and greenery demonstrate synergistic effects in facilitating the transformation of spatial perception into visitation behavior. Critically, no spatial features facilitated this transformation among older adults, revealing systematic perception behavior decoupling that challenges conventional environment behavior theories. Furthermore, green infrastructure and mixed-use spatial morphology enhance satisfaction for both age groups, while street connectivity positively guides intergenerational visitation behavior. These findings offer empirical insights for creating inclusive street environments that promote intergenerational integration. • This study revealed a say–do match in youth and a mismatch in older adults' behavior. • We identified generational mismatches between spatial perception and behavior. • We proposed a framework combining ART and P–E Fit to assess generational views. • Green infrastructure and spatial diversity improve perception across age groups.