The NEWS and NEWS-A (abbreviated version) consist of 67 and 54 items, respectively [12 (link)]. These are grouped into eight multi-item subscales (representing distinct constructs or latent factors) including perceived residential density; proximity to nonresidential land uses (land use mix – diversity); ease of access to nonresidential uses (land use mix – access); street connectivity; infrastructure for walking and cycling; aesthetics; traffic safety; and safety from crime. The first two subscales are not factor-analyzable and, hence, represent constructs rather than latent factors. Five single-item subscales (four in the NEWS-A) assess perceived major physical barriers to walking; hilly streets; difficult car parking in shopping areas; absence of cul-de-sacs; and presence of people being active in the neighborhood (not included in the NEWS-A). All subscales, with the exception of residential density and land use mix – diversity, are rated on a 4-point Likert scale. Residential density items are rated on a 5-point scale, and ratings are weighted relative to the average residential density that a specific item represents [11 (link)]. The weighted ratings are summed to create a perceived residential density score. Land use mix – diversity is assessed by the perceived walking proximity from home to various types of destinations, with responses ranging from 1- to 5-minute walking distance (coded as 5) to >30-min walking distance (coded as 1).
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