1
|
Gebhard U. [Nature experience and mental health in children-theoretical approaches and selected empirical findings]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023:10.1007/s00103-023-03729-w. [PMID: 37280441 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03729-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The widely documented beneficial effects of children's experiences with nature make it plausible to assume that an environment close to nature also has a positive effect on health in childhood, that is, that it can also contribute to health maintenance and prevention. The findings on health-promoting effects of nature are remarkable and are accentuated and theoretically substantiated here with a focus on mental health.The basis is a so-called three-dimensional personality model, according to which mental development is not only a function of the subject's relationship to other people, but also to the world of things, including nature. In addition, three explanatory approaches for the health effects of nature experiences are outlined: (1) the anthropologically based "Stress Recovery Theory," (2) the "Attention Restoration Theory," and (3) the assumption that nature as a symbolic storehouse for self- and world interpretations can accompany the meaning constitution of the subjects ("Therapeutic Landscapes").The health effects of accessible open spaces close to nature are discussed, whereby the state of research for adults is much richer than for children. With regard to mental health or its influencing variables, the following dimensions are elaborated with empirical results: stress reduction, antidepressant and mood enhancing effects, prosocial behavior, attention and ADHD, cognitive development, self-esteem and self-regulation, nature experience, and exercise. From a salutogenetic perspective, nature does not have a deterministic effect on health, but rather, in a sense, an incidental effect when open spaces close to nature are accessible and used. This casualness of the effect of nature experiences has to be considered in possible therapeutic or educational interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Gebhard
- Fakultät für Erziehungswissenschaft, AG 4, Universität Bielefeld, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Deutschland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Díaz-Martínez F, Sánchez-Sauco MF, Cabrera-Rivera LT, Sánchez CO, Hidalgo-Albadalejo MD, Claudio L, Ortega-García JA. Systematic Review: Neurodevelopmental Benefits of Active/Passive School Exposure to Green and/or Blue Spaces in Children and Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3958. [PMID: 36900969 PMCID: PMC10001910 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Today more than half of the world's population lives in urban areas. Children spend about 40 h a week in the school environment. Knowing the influence of school exposure to green/blue spaces could improve the children's health, creating healthier environments and preventing exposure to legal/illegal drugs. This systematic review summarized the main results of published studies on active or passive exposure to green or blue spaces in different domains of child neurodevelopment. In August 2022, five databases were searched and twenty-eight eligible studies were included in the analysis. Cognitive and/or academic performance was the most frequently studied (15/28). Most studies evaluate passive exposure to green/blue spaces (19/28) versus active exposure (9/28). Only three studies addressed the relationship between blue space and neurodevelopment. The main results point toward mixed evidence of a protective relationship between green/blue space exposure and neurodevelopment, especially in improving cognitive/academic performance, attention restoration, behavior, and impulsivity. Renaturalizing school spaces and promoting "greener" capacities for school environmental health could improve children's neurodevelopment. There was great heterogeneity in methodologies and adjustment for confounding factors across studies. Future research should seek a standardized approach to delivering school environmental health interventions beneficial to children's development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Díaz-Martínez
- Paediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Clinical University Hospital Virgen of Arrixaca, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Environment and Human Health Lab, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sanitaria (IMIB), University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Global Alliance to Renaturalize Child and Adolescent Health (GreenRooting.org), Spanish Association of Pediatrics, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel F. Sánchez-Sauco
- Paediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Clinical University Hospital Virgen of Arrixaca, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Environment and Human Health Lab, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sanitaria (IMIB), University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Global Alliance to Renaturalize Child and Adolescent Health (GreenRooting.org), Spanish Association of Pediatrics, 28009 Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura T. Cabrera-Rivera
- Global Alliance to Renaturalize Child and Adolescent Health (GreenRooting.org), Spanish Association of Pediatrics, 28009 Madrid, Spain
- International Exchange Program for Minority Students, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Puerto Rico-Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00921, USA
| | | | | | - Luz Claudio
- International Exchange Program for Minority Students, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Division of International Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Juan A. Ortega-García
- Paediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Clinical University Hospital Virgen of Arrixaca, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Environment and Human Health Lab, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sanitaria (IMIB), University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Global Alliance to Renaturalize Child and Adolescent Health (GreenRooting.org), Spanish Association of Pediatrics, 28009 Madrid, Spain
- International Exchange Program for Minority Students, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Moreira M, Veiga G, Lopes F, Hales D, Luz C, Cordovil R. Kindergarten Affordances for Physical Activity and Preschoolers' Motor and Social-Emotional Competence. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10020214. [PMID: 36832343 PMCID: PMC9955055 DOI: 10.3390/children10020214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between the quality of the kindergarten physical and social environment to promote physical activity (PA) and preschoolers' motor and social-emotional competence. Two Portuguese kindergartens (Gondomar city) were selected from a pool of seventeen with an assessment of kindergarten PA best practices (one with high PA practices, the other with low). Thirty-six children (M = 4.42; SD = 1.00 years) without neuromotor disorders participated in this study. Motor and social-emotional competence were assessed with standardized motor skills tasks and parent report of child behaviors. Children from the kindergarten with higher compliance with PA best practices showed significantly better motor competence. No statistically significant differences were found for social-emotional competence scores. These findings emphasize the critical importance of kindergarten in promoting preschoolers' motor competence by assuring a physical and social environment that enhances their PA practice. This is a particularly relevant concern for directors and teachers during the post-pandemic period, given the developmental delays and decreases in physical activity preschool children experienced across the pandemic period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Moreira
- Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Human Performance (CIPER), Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, University of Lisbon, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Guida Veiga
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
| | - Frederico Lopes
- Laboratory of Motor Behavior, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, University of Lisbon, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Derek Hales
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Carlos Luz
- Research Center in Sports Performance, Recreation, Innovation and Technology (SPRINT), 4960-320 Melgaço, Portugal
- Escola Superior de Educação de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1549-003 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Interdisciplinar de Estudos Educacionais, 1549-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Cordovil
- Interdisciplinary Center for the Study of Human Performance (CIPER), Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, University of Lisbon, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Motor Behavior, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, University of Lisbon, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ye T, Yu P, Wen B, Yang Z, Huang W, Guo Y, Abramson MJ, Li S. Greenspace and health outcomes in children and adolescents: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 314:120193. [PMID: 36122655 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence has linked greenspace and various health outcomes in children and adolescents, but the conclusions were inconsistent. For this review, we comprehensively summarized the measurement methods of greenspace, resultant health outcomes, and potential mechanisms from epidemiological studies in children and adolescents (aged ≤19 years). We searched for studies published and indexed in MEDLINE and EMBASE (via Ovid) up to April 11, 2022. There were a total of 9,291 studies identified with 140 articles from 28 countries finally assessed and included in this systematic review. Over 70% of the studies were conducted in highly urbanised countries/regions, but very limited research has been done in low-and middle-income countries and none in Africa. Measures of greenspace varied. Various health outcomes were reported, including protective effects of greenspace exposure on aspects of obesity/overweight, myopia, lung health, circulatory health, cognitive function, and general health in children and adolescents. The associations between greenspace exposure and other health outcomes were inconsistent, especially for respiratory health studies. We pooled odds ratios (OR) using random-effects meta-analysis for health outcomes of asthma (OR = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.84 to 1.06), allergic rhinitis (OR = 0.95; 95% CI: 0.73 to 1.25), and obesity/overweight (OR = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.84 to 0.98) with per 0.1 unit increase in normalized difference in vegetation index (NDVI). These associations have important implications for the assessment and management of urban environment and health in children and adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Ye
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Pei Yu
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Bo Wen
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Zhengyu Yang
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Wenzhong Huang
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Yuming Guo
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Michael J Abramson
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Shanshan Li
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
He G, He L, Zhang B, Ge T, Chen Y. The greener, the happier? The effects of greenspace on residents' happiness in contemporary urban China. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 50:2808-2828. [PMID: 35060137 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, research has begun to touch upon the associations between the natural environment and individuals' subjective wellbeing; however, whether such associations would vary among different groups of people remains under-studied. Using four waves (2010-2013) of data from the Chinese General Social Survey, we investigate the group-specific correlation between environment-specifically, greenspace exposure-and individuals' happiness in contemporary urban China. For this study, the normalized difference vegetation index at the county level is a proxy for greenspace exposure. The results from the ordered logit model indicate that county-level green vegetation is associated with individuals' happiness level, but such effects vary with a household's relative deprivation. While greenspace exposure is positively associated with happiness among individuals from less deprived families, it is negatively associated with happiness among those from deprived households. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge of the heterogeneous effect of greenspace on residents' subjective well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangye He
- Department of Sociology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li He
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Boyang Zhang
- Department of Sociology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ting Ge
- Department of Social Work and Social Policy, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, China
| | - Yunsong Chen
- Department of Sociology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Access to and Quality of Neighbourhood Public Open Space and Children’s Mental Health Outcomes: Evidence from Population Linked Data across Eight Australian Capital Cities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116780. [PMID: 35682362 PMCID: PMC9180559 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Neighbourhood-level interventions offer a promising opportunity to promote child mental health at a population level; however, neighbourhood effects are still regarded as a ‘black box’ and a better understanding of the specific design elements, such as public open space, is needed to inform actionable policy interventions. Methods: This study leveraged data from a population linked dataset (Australian Early Development Census—Built Environment) combining information from a national census of children’s developmental outcomes with individualised geospatial data. Associations between access to (within 400 m and 800 m from home), and quality of, public open space and child mental health outcomes across eight capital cities were estimated using multilevel logistic regression models, adjusting for demographic and contextual factors. Access was defined based on proximity of public open space to children’s home addresses, within distance thresholds (400 m, 800 m) measured along the road network. Effect modification was tested across maternal education groups. Results: Across the eight capital cities, inequities in access to child friendly public open spaces were observed across maternal education groups and neighbourhood disadvantage quintiles. Children with access to any type of public open space within 800 m of home had lower odds of demonstrating difficulties and higher odds of competence. Children with access to child friendly public open spaces within 800 m of home had the highest likelihood of demonstrating competence. Conclusion: Improving access to neighbourhood public open space appears to be a promising strategy for preventing mental health difficulties and promoting competence in early childhood. Action is needed to redress socio-spatial inequities in access to child friendly public open space.
Collapse
|
7
|
Jarvis I, Sbihi H, Davis Z, Brauer M, Czekajlo A, Davies HW, Gergel SE, Guhn M, Jerrett M, Koehoorn M, Nesbitt L, Oberlander TF, Su J, van den Bosch M. The influence of early-life residential exposure to different vegetation types and paved surfaces on early childhood development: A population-based birth cohort study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 163:107196. [PMID: 35339041 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence suggests that exposure to green space is associated with improved childhood health and development, but the influence of different green space types remains relatively unexplored. In the present study, we investigated the association between early-life residential exposure to vegetation and early childhood development and evaluated whether associations differed according to land cover types, including paved land. METHODS Early childhood development was assessed via kindergarten teacher-ratings on the Early Development Instrument (EDI) in a large population-based birth cohort (n = 27,539) in Metro Vancouver, Canada. The residential surrounding environment was characterized using a high spatial resolution land cover map that was linked to children by six-digit residential postal codes. Early-life residential exposure (from birth to time of EDI assessment, mean age = 5.6 years) was calculated as the mean of annual percentage values of different land cover classes (i.e., total vegetation, tree cover, grass cover, paved surfaces) within a 250 m buffer zone of postal code centroids. Multilevel models were used to analyze associations between respective land cover classes and early childhood development. RESULTS In adjusted models, one interquartile range increase in total vegetation percentage was associated with a 0.33 increase in total EDI score (95% CI: 0.21, 0.45). Similar positive associations were observed for tree cover (β-coefficient: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.37) and grass cover (β-coefficient: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.22), while negative associations were observed for paved surfaces (β-coefficient: -0.35, 95% CI: -0.47, -0.23). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that increased early-life residential exposure to vegetation is positively associated with early childhood developmental outcomes, and that associations may be stronger for residential exposure to tree cover relative to grass cover. Our results further indicate that childhood development may be negatively associated with residential exposure to paved surfaces. These findings can inform urban planning to support early childhood developmental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Jarvis
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hind Sbihi
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12(th) Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zoë Davis
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Brauer
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Agatha Czekajlo
- Department of Forest Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Mail Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hugh W Davies
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah E Gergel
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Martin Guhn
- Human Early Learning Partnership, School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Jerrett
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, the United States; Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California at Los Angeles, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, CA, the United States
| | - Mieke Koehoorn
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lorien Nesbitt
- Department of Forest Resources Management, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Mail Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tim F Oberlander
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 4480 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jason Su
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way West, Berkeley, CA, the United States
| | - Matilda van den Bosch
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; ISGlobal, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona, Doctor Aiguader 88 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Plaça de la Mercè, 10-12, 08002 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Calle de Melchor, Fernández Almagro, 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Luque-García L, Corrales A, Lertxundi A, Díaz S, Ibarluzea J. Does exposure to greenness improve children's neuropsychological development and mental health? A Navigation Guide systematic review of observational evidence for associations. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 206:112599. [PMID: 34932982 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contact with nature may have a key role in child brain development. Recent observational studies have reported improvements in children's neuropsychological development and mental health associated with greenness exposure. In a rapidly urbanizing word, researchers, policymakers, healthcare workers and urban planners need to work together to elaborate evidence-based policies and interventions to increase the availability of quality green space with the potential to enhance childhood development. OBJECTIVE To review the observational evidence assessing the effect of exposure to greenness on children's neuropsychological development and mental health. METHODS The protocol for the review was preregistered at PROSPERO (CRD42020213838). The Navigation Guide systematic review methodology was followed. Search strategies were formulated and adapted to each database. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and EBSCO's GreenFILE on October 5, 2021. Additional articles were further identified by hand-searching reference lists of included papers. RESULTS A systematic search of 4 databases identified 621 studies, of which 34 were included in the review. The studies included investigated diverse domains within neuropsychological development and mental health, such as attention, working memory, intelligence, cognitive development, academic performance, well-being, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, and behavior. Most of the studies were rated as having high or probably high risk of bias in the assessment. DISCUSSION Although nearly all studies showed a positive association between greenness exposure and the outcomes studied, the heterogeneity in the methods used to assess exposure and the diversity of domains within each main outcome has made it difficult to draw clear conclusions. Future studies should adopt a longitudinal design to confirm the causality of the associations and include measures to determine which characteristics of greenness have the greatest influence on each domain. Researchers should also try to explore pathways linking exposure to greenness with the neuropsychological development and mental health, by implementing mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Luque-García
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain; Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development Group, 20014, San Sebastian, Spain; Osakidetza Basque Health Service, Goierri Alto-Urola Integrated Health Organisation, Zumarraga Hospital, Zumarraga, 20700, Spain.
| | - A Corrales
- Osakidetza Basque Health Service, Uribe Integrated Health Organisation, Urduliz-Alfredo Espinosa Hospital, Urduliz, 48610, Spain
| | - A Lertxundi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain; Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development Group, 20014, San Sebastian, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - S Díaz
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, 48940, Spain
| | - J Ibarluzea
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development Group, 20014, San Sebastian, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain; Ministry of Health of the Basque Government, Sub-Directorate for Public Health and Addictions of Gipuzkoa, 20013, San Sebastián, Spain; Faculty of Psychology of the University of the Basque Country, 20018, San Sebastian, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mygind L, Elsborg P, Schipperijn J, Boruff B, Lum JAG, Bølling M, Flensborg-Madsen T, Bentsen P, Enticott PG, Christian H. Is vegetation cover in key behaviour settings important for early childhood socioemotional function? A preregistered, cross-sectional study. Dev Sci 2021; 25:e13200. [PMID: 34841627 DOI: 10.1111/desc.13200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The environmental influences on early childhood development are understudied. The association between vegetation cover (i.e., trees, shrubs, grassed areas) in four key behaviour settings and socioemotional functioning was investigated in 1196 young children (2-5 years). Emotional difficulties were inversely associated with vegetation cover in the home yard (OR: 0.81 [0.69-0.96]) and neighbourhood (OR: 0.79 [0.67-0.94]), but not in early childhood education and care (ECEC) centre outdoor areas or the ECEC neighbourhood. The higher odds of emotional difficulties associated with lower levels of maternal education was reduced with higher percentages of home yard vegetation cover. There was no evidence of mediation of the relationship between emotional difficulties and vegetation cover by time spent playing outside the home, day or nighttime sleep duration, or physical activity. We found no associations between vegetation cover and conduct, hyperactivity and inattention, peer difficulties, or prosocial behaviours. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3HeEiIjVZc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laerke Mygind
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Unit of Medical Psychology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, the Capital Region of Denmark, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Elsborg
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, the Capital Region of Denmark, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Health Promotion Research, the Capital Region of Denmark, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Jasper Schipperijn
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bryan Boruff
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts, Business and Law, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Jarrad A G Lum
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Mads Bølling
- Health Promotion Research, the Capital Region of Denmark, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Trine Flensborg-Madsen
- Unit of Medical Psychology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Bentsen
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, the Capital Region of Denmark, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Geoscience and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter G Enticott
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Hayley Christian
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fyfe-Johnson AL, Hazlehurst MF, Perrins SP, Bratman GN, Thomas R, Garrett KA, Hafferty KR, Cullaz TM, Marcuse EK, Tandon PS. Nature and Children's Health: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2021; 148:e2020049155. [PMID: 34588297 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-049155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Daily outdoor play is encouraged by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Existing evidence is unclear on the independent effect of nature exposures on child health. OBJECTIVE We systematically evaluated evidence regarding the relationship between nature contact and children's health. DATA SOURCES The database search was conducted by using PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsychInfo, ERIC, Scopus, and Web of Science in February 2021. STUDY SELECTION We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. In all searches, the first element included nature terms; the second included child health outcome terms. DATA EXTRACTION Of the 10 940 studies identified, 296 were included. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed. RESULTS The strongest evidence for type of nature exposure was residential green space studies (n = 147, 50%). The strongest evidence for the beneficial health effects of nature was for physical activity (n = 108, 32%) and cognitive, behavioral, or mental health (n = 85, 25%). Physical activity was objectively measured in 55% of studies, and 41% of the cognitive, behavioral, or mental health studies were experimental in design. LIMITATIONS Types of nature exposures and health outcomes and behaviors were heterogenous. Risk of selection bias was moderate to high for all studies. Most studies were cross-sectional (n = 204, 69%), limiting our ability to assess causality. CONCLUSIONS Current literature supports a positive relationship between nature contact and children's health, especially for physical activity and mental health, both public health priorities. The evidence supports pediatricians in advocating for equitable nature contact for children in places where they live, play, and learn.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber L Fyfe-Johnson
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington
| | | | | | - Gregory N Bratman
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Rick Thomas
- National Academy of Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kimberly A Garrett
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kiana R Hafferty
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| | - Tess M Cullaz
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington
| | | | - Pooja S Tandon
- Pediatrics
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, Washington
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Shoari N, Ezzati M, Doyle YG, Wolfe I, Brauer M, Bennett J, Fecht D. Nowhere to Play: Available Open and Green Space in Greater London Schools. J Urban Health 2021; 98:375-384. [PMID: 33742376 PMCID: PMC8190412 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-021-00527-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Experiencing outdoor space, especially natural space, during childhood and adolescence has beneficial physical and mental health effects, including improved cognitive and motor skills and a lower risk of obesity. Since school-age children typically spend 35-40 hours per week at schools, we quantified their access to open (non-built-up) space and green space at schools in Greater London. We linked land use information from the UK Ordnance Survey with school characteristics from the Department for Education (DfE) for schools in Greater London. We estimated open space by isolating land and water features within school boundaries and, as a subset of open space, green space defined as open space covered by vegetation. We examined the relationship of both school open and green space with distance to Central London, whether the school was fee-paying, and the percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals (as a school-level indicator of socioeconomic status). Almost 400,000 pupils (30% of all pupils in London) attended schools with less than ten square metre per pupil of open space-the minimum recommended area by DfE-and 800,000 pupils attended schools with less than ten square metre per pupil of green space. Of the latter, 70% did not have any public parks in the immediate vicinity of their schools. School green space increased with distance from Central London. There was a weak association between the school-level socioeconomic indicator and the amount of open and green space. Fee-paying schools provided less open space compared to non-fee-paying schools in central parts of London, but the provision became comparable in suburban London. Many London schools do not provide enough open and green space. There is a need to ensure regular contact with green space through safeguarding school grounds from sales, financially supporting disadvantaged schools to increase their outdoor space and providing access to off-site facilities such as sharing outdoor space with other schools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Shoari
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Majid Ezzati
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Ingrid Wolfe
- Department of Women and Children's Health, School of Life Course Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Brauer
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - James Bennett
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Daniela Fecht
- MRC Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Herr RM, Diehl K, Schneider S, Osenbruegge N, Memmer N, Sachse S, Hoffmann S, Wachtler B, Herke M, Pischke CR, Novelli A, Hilger-Kolb J. Which Meso-Level Characteristics of Early Childhood Education and Care Centers Are Associated with Health, Health Behavior, and Well-Being of Young Children? Findings of a Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4973. [PMID: 34067043 PMCID: PMC8125417 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Characteristics of early childhood education and care (ECEC) centers might be relevant for children's health. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of the association between meso-level characteristics (MLCs) of ECEC centers with children's health, health behavior, and wellbeing. Five databases were searched for quantitative and qualitative research articles published in English or German since 1 January 2000 on health, health behavior, and wellbeing of children aged 0 to 6 years considering MLCs of ECEC centers. Two authors screened 10,396 potentially eligible manuscripts and identified 117 papers, including 3077 examinations of the association between MLCs and children's health indicators (Kappas > 0.91). Five categories of MLCs were identified: (1) structural characteristics, (2) equipment/furnishings, (3) location, (4) facilities/environment, (5) culture/activities/policies/practices, and 6) staff. Only very few studies found an association of MLCs with body weight/obesity, and general health and wellbeing. Especially physical activity and mental health were related to MLCs. In general, the location (rural vs. urban, neighborhood status) seemed to be a relevant health aspect. MLCs of ECEC centers appeared relevant for child health indicators to different degrees. Future research should focus on these associations, in detail, to identify concrete ECEC indicators that can support health promotion in early childhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raphael M. Herr
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| | - Katharina Diehl
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| | - Sven Schneider
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| | - Nina Osenbruegge
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| | - Nicole Memmer
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| | - Steffi Sachse
- Institute of Psychology, University of Education Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Stephanie Hoffmann
- Department of Public Health, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, 01968 Senftenberg, Germany;
| | - Benjamin Wachtler
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, 12101 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Max Herke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Medical Faculty, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle, Germany;
| | - Claudia R. Pischke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Center for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany;
| | - Anna Novelli
- Chair of Health Economics, Technical University of Munich, 80992 Munich, Germany;
| | - Jennifer Hilger-Kolb
- Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (K.D.); (S.S.); (N.O.); (N.M.); (J.H.-K.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jimenez MP, DeVille NV, Elliott EG, Schiff JE, Wilt GE, Hart JE, James P. Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18094790. [PMID: 33946197 PMCID: PMC8125471 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
There is extensive empirical literature on the association between exposure to nature and health. In this narrative review, we discuss the strength of evidence from recent (i.e., the last decade) experimental and observational studies on nature exposure and health, highlighting research on children and youth where possible. We found evidence for associations between nature exposure and improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep. Results from experimental studies provide evidence of protective effects of exposure to natural environments on mental health outcomes and cognitive function. Cross-sectional observational studies provide evidence of positive associations between nature exposure and increased levels of physical activity and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, and longitudinal observational studies are beginning to assess long-term effects of nature exposure on depression, anxiety, cognitive function, and chronic disease. Limitations of current knowledge include inconsistent measures of exposure to nature, the impacts of the type and quality of green space, and health effects of duration and frequency of exposure. Future directions include incorporation of more rigorous study designs, investigation of the underlying mechanisms of the association between green space and health, advancement of exposure assessment, and evaluation of sensitive periods in the early life-course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcia P. Jimenez
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Correspondence: (M.P.J.); (N.V.D.)
| | - Nicole V. DeVille
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (E.G.E.); (J.E.H.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.J.); (N.V.D.)
| | - Elise G. Elliott
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (E.G.E.); (J.E.H.)
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (J.E.S.); (G.E.W.)
| | - Jessica E. Schiff
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (J.E.S.); (G.E.W.)
| | - Grete E. Wilt
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (J.E.S.); (G.E.W.)
| | - Jaime E. Hart
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (E.G.E.); (J.E.H.)
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (J.E.S.); (G.E.W.)
| | - Peter James
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (E.G.E.); (J.E.H.)
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (J.E.S.); (G.E.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Torkar G, Kos M. Do tick-borne diseases affect outdoor teaching in Slovenian preschools? Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101728. [PMID: 33848797 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Childhood experiences with nature are decisive for children's wellbeing. The need for outdoor activities has been duly recognized in the preschool curriculum in Slovenia. However, there are some obstacles to this approach-specifically, tick-borne diseases. This study examines the views and experiences of Slovenian preschool teachers (n = 158) with ticks and tick-borne diseases in order to create a safer environment for the further development of outdoor education. The majority of the respondents engage in outdoor teaching once or several times a week. They have very frequent contact with ticks and tick-borne diseases in their professional lives. More than four-fifths of the respondents carry out some tick-prevention measures in preschools, but room for improvement remains. The respondents report rare cases in which parents or guardians have tried to prohibit them from visiting outdoor areas because of tick-borne diseases, and they explain how they dealt with the situation. The attitude of preschool teachers toward ticks and tick-borne diseases did not correlate significantly with the frequency with which they went outdoors in preschools. This study therefore concludes that, despite the objective risks associated with tick-borne diseases, there is still broad consensus among educators and parents on the importance of outdoor education in the early years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Torkar
- Faculty of Education, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Marjanca Kos
- Faculty of Education, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The Relationship between Nature Deprivation and Individual Wellbeing across Urban Gradients under COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041511. [PMID: 33562586 PMCID: PMC7915014 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Lockdown aiming at slowing COVID-19 transmission has altered nature accessibility patterns, creating quasi-experimental conditions to assess if retracted nature contact and perceived nature deprivation influence physical and emotional wellbeing. We measure through on-line survey methods (n = 529) how pandemic mandates limiting personal movement and outdoor nature access within the United States affect self-assessed nature exposure, perceived nature deprivation, and subsequent flourishing as measured by the Harvard Flourishing Index. Results indicate that perceived nature deprivation strongly associates with local nature contact, time in nature, and access to municipal nature during the pandemic, after controlling for lockdown mandates, job status, household composition, and sociodemographic variables. Our hypothesis is that individuals with strong perceived nature deprivation under COVID-19 leads to diminished wellbeing proved true. Interaction models of flourishing showed positive modification of nature affinity with age and qualitative modification of nature deprivation with race. Our results demonstrate the potential of local nature contact to support individual wellbeing in a background context of emotional distress and social isolation, important in guiding public health policies beyond pandemics.
Collapse
|
16
|
The Impact of Schoolyard Greening on Children's Physical Activity and Socioemotional Health: A Systematic Review of Experimental Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020535. [PMID: 33561082 PMCID: PMC7827958 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Access to green schoolyards (schoolyards designed with greenery and natural elements to create a park-like environment, as opposed to asphalt-based playgrounds) are associated with many benefits for students, including improvements in physical and mental health. While many studies examining these associations are cross-sectional, some feature experimental designs that offer the possibility of causal inference. In this review, we looked at experimental studies that examine the impact of schoolyard greening on measures of physical activity and socioemotional health in children. Four electronic databases (Ovid Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus and Greenfile) were searched, and from 1843 articles retrieved, 6 articles met the inclusion criteria. Examination of the eligible studies revealed a general consensus on the positive impact of schoolyard greening on both physical activity and socioemotional health outcomes for students, suggesting that schoolyard greening is a viable intervention in reducing the health equity gaps and improving children’s health regardless of their racial or ethnic backgrounds or residential neighborhood socioeconomic status. Further experimental research on this topic should elucidate how educators, administrators, policy makers, and other stakeholders can harness the benefits of schoolyard greening to improve the health and well-being of children in their communities.
Collapse
|
17
|
Mygind L, Kurtzhals M, Nowell C, Melby PS, Stevenson MP, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Lum JAG, Flensborg-Madsen T, Bentsen P, Enticott PG. Landscapes of becoming social: A systematic review of evidence for associations and pathways between interactions with nature and socioemotional development in children. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106238. [PMID: 33189991 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing research indicates that spending time in nature is associated with diverse aspects of children's health and wellbeing. Although fundamental to later life chances and health, no systematic reviews, to our knowledge, have focused specifically on the effects of interaction with nature on socioemotional functioning in childhood. OBJECTIVES Amongst children, what is the consistency of associations between the availability of or spending time in nature on socioemotional function and development? Furthermore, which child behaviours and states independently associate with socioemotional function and availability of or spending time in nature, and what is the consistency of associations between these behaviours and states and contact with nature? DATA SOURCES Embase, Environment Complete, MEDLINE, and APA PsycINFO. Eligible studies were backward and forward snowball-searched. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies investigating effects of, or associations between, availability of or interaction with nature on socioemotional or proximal outcomes in children under the age of 12 years were included in this review. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS The internal validity of studies investigating socioemotional outcomes were based on assessments of elements of study design, conduct, and reporting to identify potential issues related to confounding or other biases. The number of analyses indicating positive, negative, and non-significant associations between availability or interaction with green space and the outcomes were summed. RESULTS A total of 223 eligible full-texts, of which 43 pertained to socioemotional outcomes and 180 to proximal outcomes, met eligibility criteria. Positive associations between availability of and spending time in green space were found with children's intra- and interpersonal socioemotional function and development. Proportions of positive findings ranged from 13.9% to 55% across experimental and observational research, exposures, populations, and contexts. Modifying and mediating factors were identified. We found consistent evidence for improved aspects of cognition and, for children over six years, reduced risk of obesity and overweight in association with green space; consistent links between movement behaviours in the experimental, but not observational research; tentative trends suggesting associations with play, motor skills, language, screen time, and communication skills; little evidence for positive associations between green space and mood, physical wellbeing, and stress; some evidence for associations with healthy birth outcomes, and little evidence for direct associations between availability of green space and asthma and allergy prevalence, however, mediation via, for example, air pollution was likely. LIMITATIONS We identified few studies without either probable or severe risk of bias in at least one item. Improved study quality may therefore result in different results. Restricting analyses to include only studies considered at low risk of bias indicated similar or slightly lower proportions of positive findings. Risk of bias in proximal outcomes was not assessed. CONCLUSIONS The empirical evidence for benefits of availability of and interaction green space for child socioemotional function and development must currently be considered limited. A number of proximal indicators were identified. Systematic review registration number. PROSPERO ID CRD42019135016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lærke Mygind
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Unit of Medical Psychology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Mette Kurtzhals
- Health Promotion Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, The Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Clare Nowell
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Paulina S Melby
- Section of Sport, Individual and Society, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matt P Stevenson
- Health Promotion Research, Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, The Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Mark Nieuwenhuijsen
- ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Publica, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jarrad A G Lum
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Trine Flensborg-Madsen
- Unit of Medical Psychology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Bentsen
- Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, The Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Geoscience and Natural Resource Management, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Peter G Enticott
- Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cost–Benefit Evaluation of Decentralized Greywater Reuse Systems in Rural Public Schools in Chile. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12123468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Water scarcity is one of the most important climatic threats in recent times. In Chile, the north and north-central areas, with predominantly arid or semi-arid climates, have been strongly affected by the low availability of water, as well as by overexploitation of water resources derived from the negative effect caused by some sectors of the economy such as agriculture and mining. Only 53% of households in rural areas in Chile have access to drinking water from a public network. To date, some pilot greywater treatment systems have been implemented in rural public schools. This paper presents an economic analysis of pilot systems for greywater treatment from three case studies. The results showed that the implementation of these systems would not be economically feasible, since the initial investment costs can exceed USD 5200, which is not offset by the water savings. However, other benefits, such as thermal regulation, better life quality, and the feeling of well-being and satisfaction of students and teachers should be considered to be paramount for the evaluation of treatment systems. In addition, current levels of treated greywater could allow irrigation of 6.24, 5.68, and 3.56 m2/person in the Alejandro Chelén, El Guindo, and Pedro de Valdivia schools, respectively. These results contribute to a better understanding of the social role that should be applied to the evaluation of ecological systems that save water and improve the well-being of the population.
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Research indicates that natural features surrounding schools are associated with better academic achievement, enhanced focus, and reduced stress in students. However, few studies have examined the associations between school landscape elements and anxiety, depression, and behavioral concerns in students. The purpose of this study was to determine whether greenery and impervious surfaces surrounding schools are associated with student internalizing and externalizing problems. METHOD Fifth-grade students (n = 21,378) reported internalizing and externalizing behaviors on the 2016 Minnesota Student Survey, an anonymous school-based survey administered statewide. Geographic information system landscape data were available for 268 schools in metropolitan areas. We calculated the percentages of tree canopy, grass and shrub cover, and impervious surfaces within 300- and 500-m radius areas around each school building. Multilevel regression models evaluated the associations between student-level internalizing and externalizing behaviors and school-level landscape percentages, controlling for sex, race, and free/reduced-price lunch. RESULTS Students attending metropolitan schools with a higher percentage of impervious surfaces were more likely to report externalizing behaviors and marginally more internalizing symptoms than students in schools with a lower percentage of impervious surfaces. Higher percentages of tree canopy and grass and shrub cover surrounding schools were not associated with internalizing or externalizing behaviors. CONCLUSION Increased impervious surfaces around schools in metropolitan areas were related to increased student externalizing behaviors. Further studies are necessary to understand the significance of the built environment, types of greenery, impact of greenery on student adjustment in nonmetropolitan settings, and varying areas surrounding schools. These results could inform initiatives to improve school landscapes.
Collapse
|
20
|
The Low-Impact Development Demand Index: A New Approach to Identifying Locations for LID. WATER 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/w11112341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The primary goal of low impact development (LID) is to capture urban stormwater runoff; however, multiple indirect benefits (environmental and socioeconomic benefits) also exist (e.g., improvements to human health and decreased air pollution). Identifying sites with the highest demand or need for LID ensures the maximization of all benefits. This is a spatial decision-making problem that has not been widely addressed in the literature and was the focus of this research. Previous research has focused on finding feasible sites for installing LID, whilst only considering insufficient criteria which represent the benefits of LID (either neglecting the hydrological and hydraulic benefits or indirect benefits). This research considered the hydrological and hydraulic, environmental, and socioeconomic benefits of LID to identify sites with the highest demand for LID. Specifically, a geospatial framework was proposed that uses publicly available data, hydrological-hydraulic principles, and a simple additive weighting (SAW) method within a hierarchical decision-making model. Three indices were developed to determine the LID demand: (1) hydrological-hydraulic index (HHI), (2) socioeconomic index (SEI), and (3) environmental index (ENI). The HHI was developed based on a heuristic model using hydrological-hydraulic principles and validated against the results of a physical model, the Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System model (HEC-HMS). The other two indices were generated using the SAW hierarchical model and then incorporated into the HHI index to generate the LID demand index (LIDDI). The framework was applied to the City of Toronto, yielding results that are validated against historical flooding records.
Collapse
|
21
|
Alderton A, Villanueva K, O'Connor M, Boulangé C, Badland H. Reducing Inequities in Early Childhood Mental Health: How Might the Neighborhood Built Environment Help Close the Gap? A Systematic Search and Critical Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16091516. [PMID: 31035699 PMCID: PMC6540328 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16091516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimal mental health in early childhood is key to later mental health, physical health, education, and social outcomes; yet, children facing disadvantage tend to have worse mental health and fewer opportunities to develop this foundation. An emerging body of research shows that neighborhoods provide important opportunities for the development of children's mental health. Synthesizing this evidence can advance understandings of the features of the neighborhood built environment (e.g., housing, parks) that (1) promote optimal mental health in childhood and (2) reduce mental health inequities. METHODS We systematically searched and critically reviewed the international quantitative literature investigating associations between the neighborhood built environment and young children's mental health. RESULTS 14 articles met inclusion criteria; most examined nature or public open space. Studies tended to find greater access to or quantity of neighborhood nature or public open space were associated with better mental health. Significant gaps included a lack of studies investigating social infrastructure, and few studies examined how the built environment related to positive mental health (i.e., functioning, rather than problems). CONCLUSIONS Current evidence suggests there is some relationship, but additional research is needed that addresses these gaps and examines differences in associations between child subgroups (e.g., diverse socioeconomic backgrounds).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Alderton
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
| | - Karen Villanueva
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
| | - Meredith O'Connor
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
- ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, The Australian National University, Canberra 0200, Australia.
| | - Claire Boulangé
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Hannah Badland
- Centre for Urban Research, RMIT University, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vanaken GJ, Danckaerts M. Impact of Green Space Exposure on Children's and Adolescents' Mental Health: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122668. [PMID: 30486416 PMCID: PMC6313536 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the interest in the relationship between exposure to green spaces and children’s and adolescents’ mental health has risen. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of observational studies assessing the association between empirical green space exposure with standardized outcome measures of mental health problems, mental well-being and developmental problems in children, adolescents and young adults. The PRISMA statement guidelines for reporting systematic reviews were followed. A PubMed and Scopus search resulted in the inclusion of 21 studies. The evidence consistently suggests a beneficial association between green space exposure and children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties, particularly with hyperactivity and inattention problems. Limited evidence suggests a beneficial association with mental well-being in children and depressive symptoms in adolescents and young adults. These beneficial associations are resistant to adjustment for demographic and socio-economic confounders, which thus may represent independent links. Mediating factors and the variability of this association between different age groups are discussed. From a precautionary principle, evidence up to now demands the attention of policy makers, urban planners and mental healthcare workers in order to protect children’s and adolescents’ mental health in light of rapid global urbanization by providing sufficient exposure to green spaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gert-Jan Vanaken
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Centre Leuven, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Marina Danckaerts
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Centre Leuven, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|