What Creates Unsafe Feelings in Rural Landscapes: A Study of Perceived Safety Based on Facial Expression Recognition

Over 3 billion people live in rural, unincorporated areas globally, which are vital for habitation and production. The perceived safety of these landscapes significantly impacts health and well-being. However, rural areas, as natural environments for urban populations to connect with nature, have not been sufficiently addressed in terms of safety concerns. Negative factors often outweigh those promoting safety, limiting the restorative potential of rural landscapes. This study collected rural audio–visual samples through photography and recording, captured facial emotional responses using facial expression recognition models, collected psychological response data using the rural perceived unsafety scale, and statistically evaluated safety perceptions in rural landscapes. Results indicate that (1) audio stimuli exert a stronger influence on perceived unsafety than visual stimuli, with an EUPI (Emotional Unsafety Perception Index) value 44.8% higher under audio conditions than visual conditions; (2) artificial sounds amplify perceived unsafety by 30.9% compared to natural sounds; (3) different animal sounds show significant variations in reducing perceived unsafety, with birds and pigs identified as positive factors; (4) visual factors like plant shading and buildings strongly increase perceived unsafety; and (5) audio–visual matching complicates perceived safety. For the first time, we identify auditory stimuli as the dominant factor in perceived safety in rural landscapes. These insights establish a scientific foundation and practical guidance for improving perceived safety in rural environments.