From Medicalization to Empowerment: Environmental Psychology and Spatial Thresholds in Neuro-Trauma Rehabilitation and Para-Sports Training

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Authors: Dhanashree Sanjay Kale, Guidance of Ar. Dilip Jade, Ar. Radhika Raut

Abstract: Traditional architectural typologies for neuro-trauma rehabilitation heavily rely on institutionalized, clinical frameworks. While satisfying baseline medical and physical accessibility codes, these spaces often inadvertently induce spatial alienation, reinforcing a patient's perceived systemic limitations. This research paper investigates the intersection of environmental psychology and neuro-architecture to propose an alternative paradigm: an integrated rehabilitation and para-sports training facility structured around a "Gradient of Autonomy." Utilizing a qualitative and comparative spatial analysis methodology, this study examines how progressive spatial thresholds, sensory calibration, and intentional sightlines accelerate the psychological transition from a passive patient to an empowered, elite para-athlete. The findings demonstrate that replacing sterile, clinical aesthetics with calibrated acoustic zoning, circadian lighting systems, and dignified tactile wayfinding significantly mitigates sensory overload while fostering spatial agency. The paper concludes by presenting a programmatic matrix and architectural guidelines for future universally empowering athletic environments.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21274067

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