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A review of recent efforts to integrate social sciences in problem-oriented environmental research & planning. The need for integrated approaches is briefly examined within the context of the UN Stockholm Conference of 1972, the World Conservation Strategy, & the Man & the Biosphere Program (MAB). Selected examples of efforts to develop such approaches are drawn from the first decade of the MAB Program. The requirements for such approaches & factors important to effective approaches are identified as: a clear problem definition that recognizes the dynamic, interactive nature of human-environment relations, & does not assume a linear & unidirectional relationship; a conceptual & operational framework that is flexible & adaptive, & that allows participants to learn by doing; the integration of participants (including scientists, leaders, & local populations) & activities throughout all phases of the project; the identification of positive, realistic, action-oriented solutions to problems of development; & the monitoring of solution implementation for evaluation of effectiveness over time. 1 Figure, 1 Photograph, 31 References. Modified AA.

This research involved Saudi Arabians and Americans in the assessment of urban residential quality. The study sites were four residential areas in each of two desert cities, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Tucson, Arizona. Both cities were portrayed in audiovisual simulations. In addition, on-site visits were made by touring panels of Saudi Arabians and Americans to the Tucson sites. Primary research objectives included investigation of potential crosscultural differences and assessment of the validity of the bimodal urban simulations and of the use of touring panels for assessing environmental quality. Cross-cultural differences were found in all phases of the research; modest support was found for the validity of the simulations; and important differences were found between on-site assessments by touring panels and residents of the study areas.