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Jung MS, Silva JAGDA, Fachinetto JM, Copetti CM, Babeski CM, Peter CL. Water springs: an immeasurable resource for ensuring sustainability. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2024; 96:e20231010. [PMID: 39166617 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202420231010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Water springs are manifestations of groundwater to the surface, forming and ensuring the supply and sustainability of streams, lakes, rivers, and dams. Therefore, its riparian forest is considered an area of permanent preservation, which aims to protect the water, as well as the spring, from consequences of disordered population growth, added to deficient basic sanitation systems, climate change, agricultural activities, inappropriate land uses, unplanned urbanization, and diffuse sources of pollution. In addition to compromising water quality, many of these factors affect the permanence of water upwelling at the source, compromising the formation and continuity of streams, lakes, and rivers. In this context, the objective of the present research was to carry out a bibliographic review on water springs, approaching adjacent themes to the main axis of the study that are fundamental for a deep understanding of their importance for the maintenance of water resources and ensuring biodiversity in the search for the sustainability of life for present and future generations. This research collaborates with the environmental view and shows that the function of a water sources is broader than its concepts can reveal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia S Jung
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
| | - José Antonio G DA Silva
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliana Maria Fachinetto
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
| | - Camila M Copetti
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristhian M Babeski
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
| | - Cibele Luisa Peter
- Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (UNIJUÍ). Rua do Comércio, 3000, Bairro Universitário, 98700-000 Ijuí, RS, Brazil
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Song C, Cao S, Luo H, Huang Y, Jiang S, Guo B, Li N, Li K, Zhang P, Zhu C, Fu E, Jiang M, Li X. Effects of simulated multi-sensory stimulation integration on physiological and psychological restoration in virtual urban green space environment. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1382143. [PMID: 38966742 PMCID: PMC11223631 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1382143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Virtual urban green environment images and audio stimuli had been proven to have restorative effects on subjects' physical and mental health. In this area, researchers predominantly focused on visual, auditory and olfactory aspects, while tactile and gustatory senses have been minimally explored. However, the optimal combination of sensory stimuli for promoting physical and mental recovery remains unclear. Therefore, a simulated sensory stimulation approach involving 240 participants was employed, with 30 individuals included in each of the eight experimental groups: the visual-auditory (VA), visual-auditory-olfactory (VAO), visual-auditory-tactile (VAT), visual-auditory-gustatory(VAG), visual-auditory-olfactory-tactile (VAOT), visual-auditory-olfactory-gustatory (VAOG), visual-auditory-tactile-gustatory (VATG), and visual-auditory-olfactory-tactile-gustatory (VAOTG) groups. This study aimed to explore the differences in participants' physiological and psychological health recovery after exposure to different combinations of simulated sensory stimuli in virtual UGSs. The results indicated that the following: (1) In terms of physiological recovery, the blood pressure of the 8 experimental groups decreased significantly after the experiment, indicating that the virtual urban green space environment has a certain recovery effect on physiological state. The combination of VAOTG stimuli in the multisensory group resulted in the best blood pressure recovery (p < 0.05). Tactile is an important sense to enhance the physiological recovery effect. Olfactory-tactile or tactile-gustatory stimuli interactions significantly enhance physiological recovery, emphasizing the importance of tactile stimulation in improving physiological recovery. (2) In terms of psychological recovery, the common trigger of olfactory-gustatory is the most key element to enhance psychological recovery through multi-sensory stimulation of virtual urban green space environment. VAOG stimulation had the best effect on psychological recovery (p < 0.05), followed by VAOTG stimulation (p < 0.05). Gustatory is an important sense to enhance the psychological recovery effect, and both the tactile-gustatory interaction and the olfactory-gustatory interaction significantly enhance the recovery effect. At the same time, the psychological recovery effect obtained by four or more sensory combinations was higher than that obtained by two or three sensory stimulation groups. This study confirms more possibilities for ways to restore physical and mental health through virtual natural environments. It expands the research on the benefits of virtual nature experience and provides theoretical support for the application of this method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Song
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Saixin Cao
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Silviculture, Protection and Utilization, Guangdong Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinghui Huang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Siwei Jiang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Baimeng Guo
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nian Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kai Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunyan Zhu
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Erkang Fu
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyan Jiang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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Büssing A, Weit M, Baumann K. Experiences of Awe and Gratitude and Related Triggers Among Religious Brothers and Sisters: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study in Germany. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024; 63:1880-1904. [PMID: 38240942 PMCID: PMC11060992 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01983-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
A cross-sectional survey among religious brothers and sisters (n = 250) with their specific lifestyle and related spiritual practices stated moments of awe perceptions. They responded to both the Awe/Gratitude scale and to free text fields to substantiate their quantitative responses. Qualitative content analysis of their free text responses resulted in six main categories of awe triggers: (1) Nature, (2) Special Moments, (3) Transcendence Perceptions, (4) Religious practices, (5) Distinct People, and (6) Aesthetics, Art and Culture. Awe perceptions can be an immediate feeling and the outcome of a process of reflection in response to admiration, inspiration, and elevation. As these perceptions are related to psychological well-being and prosocial behaviors, their training can generate positive effects on quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arndt Büssing
- Professorship Quality of Life, Spirituality and Coping, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Gerhard-Kienle-Weg 4, 59313, Herdecke, Germany.
- IUNCTUS - Competence Center for Christian Spirituality, Philosophical-Theological Academy, Münster, Germany.
| | - Michael Weit
- IUNCTUS - Competence Center for Christian Spirituality, Philosophical-Theological Academy, Münster, Germany
| | - Klaus Baumann
- Caritas Science and Christian Social Work, Faculty of Theology, Albert-Ludwig-University, 79085, Freiburg, Germany
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Liu J, Yuan L, Li M, Li SJ, Sun Y, Yuan J. Ecological experiential learning and tourists' pro-environmental behavior intentions: The mediating roles of awe and nature connection. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23410. [PMID: 38169880 PMCID: PMC10758785 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the important role of tourists' behavior plays in marine protected areas (MPAs) and the increasing popularity of ecological experiential learning (EEL) journeys, this study aims to investigate whether and how EEL impact tourists' pro-environmental behavior (PEB) intentions through both emotional and cognitive pathways. To achieve this, four nature education trips with EEL content were organized, and PEB intentions of 228 tourists to MPAs were analyzed using surveys. The findings revealed that the low-effort PEB intentions of individuals under 24 years old were significantly lower compared to those of older tourists. Furthermore, EEL was positively associated with both low and high effort PEB intentions. The sense of awe acted as a mediator between EEL and low-effort PEB intentions, whereas nature connection was found to mediate the relationship between EEL and both low and high-effort PEB intentions. This study contributes to the growing body of research on the drivers of tourists PEB and provides a theoretical framework for promoting PEB intentions in MPAs.''''.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaman Liu
- School of Business, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Meiyun Li
- School of Business, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou Xinhua University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao National Center for Applied Mathematics, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shang-Jen Li
- College of Modern logistics, Guangzhou Panyu polytechnic, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yulu Sun
- Academy of Forestry Inventory and Planning, National Forestry and Grassland Administration of P.R.C, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangang Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Pol E, Castrechini-Trotta A, Pellicer-Cardona I, Cañete-Massé C. Communication, socialization, and ITC. The psychosocial construction of sustainability. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1277577. [PMID: 38250102 PMCID: PMC10796825 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1277577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the facets related to environmental crises (in the plural) have grown increasingly intricate. What began as environmentalists' apprehension over nature degradation and the encouragement of citizen-driven initiatives has evolved. The current shift in emphasis and prevailing message strives to foster a culture where citizens refrain from independent initiatives. Instead, the directive is to heed the guidance of the knowledgeable (scientists, politicians, corporations, interest groups, etc.), as substantiated by our investigative findings, which align, in part, with existing literature. Conversely, our exploration into environmental communication, notably the insights gleaned from longitudinal research concerning pro-environmental knowledge, attitudes, and actions, reveals a decline in citizens' effective inclinations toward embracing pro-environmental behaviors. Meanwhile, the escalation of the climate crisis is fueling heightened levels of echo-anxiety and solastalgia. This trajectory is closely intertwined with a growing global disillusionment within society - not just regarding the future - instilling a sense of disillusionment concerning pro-environmental messages and slogans disseminated by governing bodies and corporations. This has led to a state resembling learned helplessness, as articulated by Seligman, or what we prefer to term "induced" helplessness, rather than fostering conditions conducive to empowerment. This article comprehensively examines various reports and our inquiries, revealing how communication management and its constituents lie at the heart of forging novel narratives, fresh cognitive dissonances, and emerging social representations. Notably emphasized is the pivotal role played by information and communication technologies (ICT), particularly through dissemination on widely-used social networks. Since the 2010s, these platforms have assumed a paramount role in shaping socialization processes, surpassing educational institutions and conventional mass media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enric Pol
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Social, Environmental and Organizational Psychology Research Group (PsicoSAO), SGR 290 Catalonia Government, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angela Castrechini-Trotta
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Social, Environmental and Organizational Psychology Research Group (PsicoSAO), SGR 290 Catalonia Government, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Pellicer-Cardona
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Research Group on Interaction and Social Change (GRICS), SGR 233 Catalonia Government, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Cañete-Massé
- Psychology, Sciences of Education and Sport, Blanquerna, Ramon Llull University, Barcelona, Spain
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Ngalo N, Thondhlana G. Illegal Solid-Waste Dumping in a Low-Income Neighbourhood in South Africa: Prevalence and Perceptions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6750. [PMID: 37754610 PMCID: PMC10530688 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20186750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Illegal solid-waste dumping (ISWD) is prevalent globally with adverse social and environmental impacts, particularly in poor communities. Understanding the extent, practices and perceptions of ISWD is needed to inform interventions. Using GIS techniques and household surveys, this study examined the prevalence of dumpsites, and perceptions of ISWD in a low-income neighbourhood of Komani, South Africa. A total of 120 dumpsites were encountered in green spaces, empty residential plots and street edges, suggesting illegal dumping of solid waste is widespread. More than half of the respondents (58%) disposed of household waste in undesignated sites or burnt it, attributing this to the non-collection of waste. Potential interventions suggested were largely technical, including regular collection of waste, and the provision of bins and plastic bags. The paper suggests approaches to addressing sustainable solid-waste management should consider the views of local communities, who are principal stakeholders in the solid-waste production and management mix.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gladman Thondhlana
- Department of Environmental Science, Rhodes University, P.O. Box 94, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
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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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Gebhard
- Fakultät für Erziehungswissenschaft, AG 4, Universität Bielefeld, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Deutschland.
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Martín AM, Vera A, Marrero RJ, Hernández B. Bystanders' reactions to animal abuse in relation to psychopathy, empathy with people and empathy with nature. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1124162. [PMID: 37251021 PMCID: PMC10213545 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1124162] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Social and academic interest in animal abuse has recently increased thanks to greater awareness of the importance of biodiversity in promoting sustainability. The redefinition of human-animal relationships, in the context of the fight against speciesism and the defense of veganism, has also contributed to this greater attention. Moreover, public awareness of animal rights has strengthened social reactions to violence against animals, though there are still some social sectors that are indifferent to these changes. Thus, better knowledge of the psychological mechanisms underlying reactions to animal abuse could contribute to better informal, social control of such abuse. The main aim of this study is to analyze the relationships between psychopathy, empathy with people, and empathy with nature arising from people's reactions to protected and domestic animal abuse and illegal dumping. Also, as previous studies have shown differences between men and women, both in animal abuse and in personality traits, thus gender is taken into account when analyzing these relationships. A total of 409 people, resident in a highly environmentally protected territory, participated in this study. They were aged between 18 and 82 years old and 49.9% women. Participants were asked about assigned punishments, as well as the probability of intervening personally and/or calling the police, in relation to ten scenarios, based on press releases, describing one of three types of transgression of environmental laws: abuse of protected animals, abuse of domestic animals or illegal dumping. They also responded to Spanish adaptations of the Inventory of Callous Unemotional Traits, the Basic Empathy Scale, the Dispositional Empathy with Nature Scale, and the Social Desirability Scale. Each participant was randomly given ten scenarios corresponding to just one transgression type but all the personality scales. Results show that people's reactions were greater for abuse of domestic than protected animals or for illegal dumping, irrespective of gender. Empathy with nature was related to the reaction against animal abuse more than empathy with people and psychopathy. Results are discussed highlighting the need for future research into similarities and differences between animal abuse and other types of environmental offences, which have many victims but no single being suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Martín
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Andrea Vera
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Rosario J. Marrero
- Departamento de Psicología Clínica, Psicobiología y Metodología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Bernardo Hernández
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
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Rahe M, Jansen P. A closer look at the relationships between aspects of connectedness and flourishing. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1137752. [PMID: 37063569 PMCID: PMC10097885 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1137752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Everyone strives for personal happiness or well-being. Flourishing is a broader concept of well-being. To better understand which factors are associated to people's flourishing, we took a closer look at the relationships of flourishing with three aspects of connectedness: Connectedness with oneself (self-love), with others (pro-socialness), and with the surrounding nature (nature connectedness). Participants were 138 adults between 18 and 71 years (M = 23.21, SD = 7.90, 98 women, 40 men). Significant positive correlations were found between flourishing and self-love and between flourishing and pro-socialness. Furthermore, nature connectedness correlated positively with self-love and with pro-socialness. A regression analysis revealed that all predictors explained 57.5% of the variance of the criterion flourishing. Self-love and pro-socialness were significant predictors of flourishing while nature connectedness was not. One explanation for the large correlations between self-love and flourishing could be overlapping aspects in both questionnaires. The fact that pro-socialness is a stronger predictor than nature connectedness could be due to a more reciprocal reinforcement of pro-social behavior. If a person treats another well, s/he is more likely treated well by that person which could reflect flourishing. Such a direct reciprocal relationship does not exist with nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rahe
- Institute of Psychology, University of Koblenz, Koblenz, Germany
| | - Petra Jansen
- Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Mason L, Zagni B, Bacchin F, Frison C, Scrimin S. Children's Attentional Processes in Outdoor and Indoor Environments: The Role of Physiological Self-Regulation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13141. [PMID: 36293718 PMCID: PMC9602797 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has documented that exposure to green spaces has the beneficial effects of attention restoration and stress reduction. This study investigated the effects of indoor (classroom) and outdoor (green school garden) environments on attentional processes in interaction with emotion and physiological self-regulation. Children in third and fourth grades (n = 42) completed a school-related emotional Stroop task assessing the effects of outdoor and indoor classroom backgrounds when facing positive and negative stimuli. Children's attentional patterns in a task completed in both environments were also assessed. Heart rate variability was registered at rest as an index of physiological self-regulation. The results revealed that children were less distracted from negative emotional materials when presented with outdoor compared with indoor background stimuli. Greater selective attention and sustained attention were shown in the green than in the classroom environment. Moreover, sustained attention varied in relation to physiological self-regulation but only when performing the task indoor.
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Garza-Teran G, Tapia Fonllem C, Fraijo-Sing B, Moreno-Barahona M. Effects of Being in Contact with Nature on Individuals' Nature Connectedness: Excursion on the “Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar” Biosphere Reserve. ECOPSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1089/eco.2022.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Garza-Terán G, Tapia-Fonllem C, Fraijo-Sing B, Borbón-Mendívil D, Poggio L. Impact of Contact With Nature on the Wellbeing and Nature Connectedness Indicators After a Desertic Outdoor Experience on Isla Del Tiburon. Front Psychol 2022; 13:864836. [PMID: 35719518 PMCID: PMC9204234 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature connectedness is determined by the representation individuals have about themselves within nature. This concept is often studied in relation to the direct contact individuals have with natural environment, which according to some studies have demonstrated to generate positive effects by fostering a feeling of connecting and bonding with nature, as well as improving their wellbeing. The main focus of this study was to calculate and assess the relation between Nature Connectedness and wellbeing of participants. The methodological approach of this research reaches quantitative data comparing results obtained from both samples, as well as correlations between the variables. The sample for this study was composed by two groups of university students (M = 25 years old). Both contrast group (n = 32) and experience group (n = 29) filled the questionnaire in two separate moments and in different environments. First data collection moment for both groups was held inside a university classroom. A second moment of data collection was carried out after a month from the first application, having the contrast group answer the questionnaire on a classroom again whilst the experience group responded it during an excursion to Isla Del Tiburon in Northwestern Mexico after performing some recreational activities being totally immersed in a local desertic environment. Questionnaire was composed by a 6 point Likert type scale measuring Nature Connectedness through concepts such as Nature relatedness and Love and care for the natural, as well as Subjective and Psychological Wellbeing of participants. Results show that both wellbeing and Nature Connectedness are positively influenced by performing activities out in the natural environment. This work was also conducted in response to the need to understand the full extent of Contact and Connectedness to nature, carrying out an exploratory study in desertic settings when much of the early work centers around the study of these variables in green nature environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenda Garza-Terán
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | - Cesar Tapia-Fonllem
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | - Blanca Fraijo-Sing
- Programs of Master and Doctorate in Psychology, University of Sonora, Hermosillo, Mexico
| | | | - Lucía Poggio
- Departamento de Psicología Social, del Trabajo y Diferencial, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Alves S, Betrabet Gulwadi G, Nilsson P. An Exploration of How Biophilic Attributes on Campuses Might Support Student Connectedness to Nature, Others, and Self. Front Psychol 2022; 12:793175. [PMID: 35498153 PMCID: PMC9043241 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.793175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
University Campuses remain important settings for nurturing and supporting student health and quality of life (QoL). Research shows the health benefits of nature experiences may be facilitated by campus spaces and activities that afford connectedness. Connectedness to nature, others, and self may allow students to cope with mental fatigue, stress, and a constant need for restoration. Despite recent encouraging trends, we still lack an integrative conceptual framework to describe the mechanisms involved in achieving connectedness for making recommendations for campus design. In this conceptual review, we examine students' connectedness in campus settings in relation to biophilic elements and attributes. We aim to understand how both direct and indirect pursuits in nature and also place-based experiences on campus foster connectedness and consequently impact students' health and QoL. Our analysis shows that connectedness seen through the lens of Kellert's biophilic design principles and aided by Alexander's pattern language provides a relational and long-term perspective on recommending strategies for connecting students to nature, to others, and to themselves in campus settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Alves
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gowri Betrabet Gulwadi
- School of Applied Human Sciences, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA, United States
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Owens M, Bunce HLI. The Potential for Outdoor Nature-Based Interventions in the Treatment and Prevention of Depression. Front Psychol 2022; 13:740210. [PMID: 35401311 PMCID: PMC8984301 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.740210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing interest in nature-based interventions (NBI) to improve human health and wellbeing. An important nascent area is exploring the potential of outdoor therapies to treat and prevent common mental health problems like depression. In this conceptual analysis on the nature-depression nexus, we distil some of the main issues for consideration when NBIs for depression are being developed. We argue that understanding the mechanisms, or 'active ingredients' in NBIs is crucial to understand what works and for whom. Successfully identifying modifiable mediating intervention targets will pave the way for interventions with increased efficacy. We highlight a non-exhaustive list of five clinically relevant putative, candidate mechanisms which may underly the beneficial effects of NBIs on depression: stress, rumination, mindfulness, sleep and exercise. We also make the case that when developing NBIs it is important to not neglect young people, explore personalised approaches and focus on both treatment and prevention approaches. To achieve these aims methodologically rigorous programmes of clinical research are needed that include well-powered and controlled experimental designs including randomised controlled trials, qualitative research, longitudinal studies and large prospective cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Owens
- Department of Psychology, The Mood Disorders Centre, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah L. I. Bunce
- CEDAR, University of Exeter and Somerset Foundation Trust NHS, Taunton, United Kingdom
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15
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Candeias A, Galindo E, Stueck M, Portelada A, Knietzsch J. Psychological Adjustment, Quality of Life and Well-Being in a German and Portuguese Adult Population During COVID-19 Pandemics Crisis. Front Psychol 2021; 12:674660. [PMID: 34721135 PMCID: PMC8555660 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.674660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The pandemics crisis had consequences in psychological adjustment of persons all over the world. The current study analyzes comparatively the topics of quality of life, and well-being, considering as predictors trait anxiety, feeling of threat, difficulty to relax, empathy and pro-social attitude, health care, sleep quality and optimism, in a population of German and Portuguese adults during the pandemics, in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the psychological reactions to crisis across countries and cultures. Methods: A sample of 470 adults divided in three age groups – —young adults (18—34 years), middle-age adults (34–54 years) and old adults (55 years and older)— completed a self-report questionnaire assessing socio-demographic data, quality of life, well-being, quality of sleep, trait anxiety, Coronavirus threat, optimism regarding the pandemics, difficulty to relax, empathy, and pro-social attitude during the pandemics period. Results: Portuguese participants expresses higher empathy and pro-social attitude and health care but in Germany people have higher quality of sleep. Young adults (a) rated their quality of life lower than middle-age adults and old adults, (b) showed also lower optimism than middle-age and old adults, and (c) showed lower well-being than middle-age,. Conclusions: Young adults rated their quality of life, optimism and well-being during pandemics lower than middle-age and old adults, and experienced higher levels of trait anxiety and difficulty to relax. It seems that young adults show a lower psychological adjustment than other age groups during COVID-19 crisis. It is concluded that quality of life, optimism, and well-being during the pandemics are affected differently according to country and group of age, suggesting individual differences across cultures and ages, and consequently the need of specific interventions to cope with the psychological reactions to pandemics crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelinda Candeias
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Edgar Galindo
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Marcus Stueck
- DPFA-Academy of Work and Health, Leipzig, Germany.,International Research Academy BIONET, Leipzig, Germany
| | - António Portelada
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC) and ESE Santarém, Santarém, Portugal
| | - Jessica Knietzsch
- DPFA-Academy of Work and Health, Leipzig, Germany.,International Research Academy BIONET, Leipzig, Germany
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Pasca L, Carrus G, Loureiro A, Navarro Ó, Panno A, Tapia Follen C, Aragonés JI. Connectedness and well-being in simulated nature. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2021; 14:397-412. [PMID: 34605598 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
People relate to nature physically, cognitively and emotionally, and this relationship fosters their well-being. There are several types of environments that vary according to their degree of naturalness, raising the question of whether they each exert different effects on people, connectedness and well-being. In order to study the extent to which environmental connectedness and well-being are a function of viewing different types of nature, we conducted a study with 454 participants from five different countries, who viewed images on a computer screen of one of three types of environment (totally natural, quasi-natural or non-natural) and responded to a series of associated items. The results of a mediation analysis showed an indirect effect of type of environment on well-being through positive and negative affect and connectedness to nature. The corresponding ANOVAs revealed differences in the connectedness and well-being elicited by different types of environment, and in preference: totally natural and quasi-natural environments (with no differences between them) showed differences with non-natural environments. Therefore, our study results suggest the usefulness of images of natural environments in fostering people's well-being and connectedness to nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pasca
- Faculty of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ana Loureiro
- Faculty of Psychology, Lusofona University, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Óscar Navarro
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Angelo Panno
- Social Psychology Department, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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17
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Perez-Lopez R, Eugenio-Gozalbo M, Edgerton E, Aragones JI. Editorial: Sustainable and Environmentally Concerned Citizens: Garden-Based Learning to Promote the Importance of Physical, Natural, and Social Resources. Front Psychol 2021; 12:703057. [PMID: 34421754 PMCID: PMC8374438 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.703057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Perez-Lopez
- Department of Research and Psychology in Education, School of Education, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcia Eugenio-Gozalbo
- Department of Didactics of Experimental, Social, and Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Education of Soria, University of Valladolid, Soria, Spain
| | - Edward Edgerton
- Psychology Division, School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Ignacio Aragones
- Department of Social, Organizational and Differential Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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