Are some natural environments more psychologically beneficial than others? The importance of type and quality on connectedness to nature and psychological restoration

Wyles, KJ; White, MP; Hattam, C; Pahl, S; King, H; Austen, MC. 2017 Are some natural environments more psychologically beneficial than others? The importance of type and quality on connectedness to nature and psychological restoration. Environment and Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916517738312

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Abstract/Summary

Exposure to nature can strengthen an individual’s sense of connectedness (i.e., emotional/cognitive bonds to the natural world) and enhance psychological restoration (e.g., feeling relaxed/refreshed). To date there have been few large studies looking at the role type and quality of natural environments may have on these outcomes. The present study used data from a large survey in England (sample analyzed = 4,515), which asked participants to recall a recent visit to nature. After controlling for covariates, respondents recalled greater connectedness to nature and restoration following visits to rural and coastal locations compared to urban green-space, and to sites of higher environmental quality (operationalized by protected/designated area status e.g., Nature Reserves). A series of structural equation analyses provided evidence for a bidirectional association between connectedness and restoration. Consideration of the psychological benefits associated with different types and quality of environment has implications for human health, environmental management, and conservation.

Item Type: Publication - Article
Divisions: Plymouth Marine Laboratory > Science Areas > Sea and Society
Depositing User: Dr Caroline Hattam
Date made live: 26 Apr 2018 15:27
Last Modified: 25 Apr 2020 09:59
URI: https://plymsea.ac.uk/id/eprint/7839

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