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Richardson M, Thatcher A. State of science: refitting the human to nature. Ergonomics 2024; 67:582-596. [PMID: 37498051 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2236340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Environmental institutions are realising that the human-nature relationship is a tangible target for a sustainable future. Societal change of that relationship is a challenge involving modifications to both systems and human behaviours. We argue that as Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) focusses on relationships, interfaces and systems it is well placed to contribute. After introducing the state of HFE and nature connectedness science an analysis of areas of HFE and human-nature connectedness themes is used to consider current work and future opportunities. We conclude that despite decades-old calls to action, HFE is embedded in a dated paradigm and has had little positive contribution to the human-nature relationship. However, HFE is well placed to create sustainable communities, designed to create a new relationship with nature. To do this, HFE needs to recognise that it should move on from solely fitting the task to the human, to refitting the human to nature.Practitioner Summary: A more sustainable human-nature relationship can be achieved through applying HFE approaches. HFE expertise in human characteristics, systems, people and technology can be applied at differing scales with various social-economic and technical factors to address key themes in our failing relationship with nature.Abbreviations: HFE: Human Factors and Ergonomics; IPBES: Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services; STAMP: System-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes; CWA: Cognitive Work Analysis; NET-HARMS: NETworked Hazard Analysis and Risk Management System; NbS: Nature-based System.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Thatcher
- Department of Psychology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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2
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Robinson JM, Breed AC, Camargo A, Redvers N, Breed MF. Biodiversity and human health: A scoping review and examples of underrepresented linkages. Environ Res 2024; 246:118115. [PMID: 38199470 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports the connections between exposure to environmental typologies(such as green and blue spaces)and human health. However, the mechanistic links that connect biodiversity (the variety of life) and human health, and the extent of supporting evidence remain less clear. Here, we undertook a scoping review to map the links between biodiversity and human health and summarise the levels of associated evidence using an established weight of evidence framework. Distinct from other reviews, we provide additional context regarding the environment-microbiome-health axis, evaluate the environmental buffering pathway (e.g., biodiversity impacts on air pollution), and provide examples of three under- or minimally-represented linkages. The examples are (1) biodiversity and Indigenous Peoples' health, (2) biodiversity and urban social equity, and (3) biodiversity and COVID-19. We observed a moderate level of evidence to support the environmental microbiota-human health pathway and a moderate-high level of evidence to support broader nature pathways (e.g., greenspace) to various health outcomes, from stress reduction to enhanced wellbeing and improved social cohesion. However, studies of broader nature pathways did not typically include specific biodiversity metrics, indicating clear research gaps. Further research is required to understand the connections and causative pathways between biodiversity (e.g., using metrics such as taxonomy, diversity/richness, structure, and function) and health outcomes. There are well-established frameworks to assess the effects of broad classifications of nature on human health. These can assist future research in linking biodiversity metrics to human health outcomes. Our examples of underrepresented linkages highlight the roles of biodiversity and its loss on urban lived experiences, infectious diseases, and Indigenous Peoples' sovereignty and livelihoods. More research and awareness of these socioecological interconnections are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.
| | - Andrew C Breed
- Epidemiology and One Health Section, Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment, Canberra, ACT, Australia; School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld, Australia
| | | | - Nicole Redvers
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
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3
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Lian C, Chen XX. The influence mechanism of self-transcendence on green consumption: The chain-mediating effect of construction of meaning in life and connectedness. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 244:104180. [PMID: 38335811 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A transition to a more sustainable society is occurring worldwide and necessitates a change in people's ways of consuming. Self-transcendence (ST) is recognized as a key predictor of green consumption. Thus, a multiple intermediary model was developed to clarify the psychological mechanisms underlying ST and its influence on consumption. The model was tested using data from a nationally representative sample of 428 Chinese participants. The results show that ST's overall positive effect on green consumption is realized via four indirect paths: (1) the simple mediating role of nature connectedness between ST and green consumption, (2) the simple mediating role of social connectedness between ST and green consumption; (3) the chain-mediating role of construction of meaning in life (CoMIL) and nature connectedness, and (4) the chain-mediating role of CoMIL and social connectedness. Among these paths, nature connectedness plays the most critical mediating role for the Chinese, accounting for the greatest proportion of the total indirect effect. The study advances understanding of the influence and path of ST on green consumption, and provides theoretical and practical support for guiding people toward sustainable lifestyles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Lian
- Xiamen University, School of Journalism and Communication, Siming South Road 422, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Xia Chen
- Fujian Business University, College of Business Administration, Fuzhou, Fujian 350012, PR China.
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Raatikainen KJ, Tupala AK, Niemelä R, Laulumaa AM. The intricate diversity of human-nature relations: Evidence from Finland. Ambio 2024; 53:181-200. [PMID: 37775714 PMCID: PMC10774321 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01933-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Supporting sustainability requires understanding human-nature relations, which we approached as social constructions that can be studied through nature-related discourses. We examined human-nature relations in Finland by combining approaches from environmental social sciences and arts-based research into a mixed-methods design. A public online survey (n = 726) and post-performance audience interviews (n = 71) portrayed nature positively. Respondents' ideas of nature ranged from natural scientific to philosophical; from dualistic to holistic; and from ecocentric to anthropocentric. A factor analysis revealed discourses focusing on wellbeing, conservation, ecoanxiety, pro-environmentalism, outdoor activity, and enjoying nature. Interviews added spiritual and over-generational aspects and revealed the importance of embodied experiences in nature relations. We identified dimensions that structure the relations, including human-nature positionality, engagement and contact with nature, and conception and thought. The emotional and experiential aspects, and nature-related practices, deserve further research. We demonstrate how a diversity of human-nature relations co-exists and co-evolves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaisa J Raatikainen
- Societal Change Unit, Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), Survontie 9A, 40500, Jyväskylä, Finland.
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, School of Resource Wisdom, University of Jyvaskyla, P.O.Box 35, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Anna-Kaisa Tupala
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, School of Resource Wisdom, University of Jyvaskyla, P.O.Box 35, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Regional Council of Central Finland, Lutakonaukio 7, 40100, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Riikka Niemelä
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, School of Resource Wisdom, University of Jyvaskyla, P.O.Box 35, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
- School of History, Culture and Art Studies, University of Turku, 20014, Turku, Finland
| | - Anna-Mari Laulumaa
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, School of Resource Wisdom, University of Jyvaskyla, P.O.Box 35, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
- Kiertotie 12 as 2, 40250, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Brambilla E, Petersen E, Stendal K, Sundling V, MacIntyre TE, Calogiuri G. Effects of immersive virtual nature on nature connectedness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241234639. [PMID: 38533309 PMCID: PMC10964443 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241234639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study systematically summarizes the extant literature on the impacts of immersive virtual nature (IVN) on nature connectedness in the general population. Methods Papers were considered eligible if peer-reviewed, in English language, comprising experimental or quasi-experimental trials, including at least one outcome relative to nature connectedness in the general population. Database search was conducted on Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Medline, and GreenFILE (22-28 November 2021). Risk of bias was established by the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Data synthesis was conducted through meta-analysis according with the Cochrane Consumers and Communication Group guidelines. Results Six eligible papers (9 studies; n = 730) were selected, in which IVN was compared to (i) non-immersive virtual nature, (ii) immersive virtual built environments, (iii) non-immersive virtual built environments, and (iv) actual nature. The risk of bias was predominantly "low" or of "some concerns." Meta-analyses showed a statistically significant overall effect for the first (g = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.06-0.45; I2 = 35%) and fourth group (g = -1.98; 95% CI = -3.21 to -0.75; I2 = 96%), the former in favor of IVN and the latter in favor of actual nature. Subgroup analyses were conducted for the first and second groups of studies to explore possible sources of heterogeneity. The small number of studies available limits the validity of the outcomes of the meta-analyses. Conclusion The findings indicate that IVN may be an effective tool for the promotion of nature connectedness, although the evidence in this field is still limited and largely mixed. Recommendations for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Brambilla
- Centre for Health and Technology, Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
| | - Evi Petersen
- Department of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Studies, University of South-Eastern Norway, Bø, Norway
- Department of Early Childhood Education, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Karen Stendal
- Department of Business, Marketing and Law, University of South-Eastern Norway, Ringerike, Norway
| | - Vibeke Sundling
- Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
| | - Tadhg E MacIntyre
- All Institute, Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Irlanda
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Centre for Health and Technology, Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
- Section for Public Health, Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Science, Elverum, Norway
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Iwińska K, Bieliński J, Calheiros CSC, Koutsouris A, Kraszewska M, Mikusiński G. The primary drivers of private-sphere pro-environmental behaviour in five European countries during the Covid-19 pandemic. J Clean Prod 2023; 393:136330. [PMID: 36748039 PMCID: PMC9894177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.136330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, when fighting climate change and other global environmental issues is of utmost urgency, the understanding of what drives pro-environmental behaviour has become a hot topic in both academic and practical circles. Some earlier studies unravelled the complexity of the underlying factors of pro-environmental conduct, yet more studies are needed to understand the socio-cultural premises of such behaviour in different countries. The main aim of this paper is to offer a comprehensive analysis of the importance of pro-environmental behaviour drivers across five countries in Europe, namely Greece, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The survey using computer-assisted web interviews (N = 2502) was implemented in July 2020, the first summer of the Covid-19 pandemic. Hierarchical linear models were employed to analyse individuals' behaviour, defined as self-perceived declaration of the willingness to contribute to environmental conservation. The results showed that attitudinal and value-related factors are more significant than demographics. Biospheric values and relationship to nature generally affect pro-environmental behaviour positively. Similarly, the experience of Covid-19 exerted a positive influence. In terms of country-level predictors, greenhouse gas emissions were found to have affected pro-environmental behaviour negatively, while the share of renewable energy sources influenced it positively. The cumulative country Covid-19-related mortality at the time of investigation did not have discernible impact. Based on the results it is suggested that, in order to foster PEB, a stronger emphasis on environmental education and attitudes towards nature should be employed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cristina Sousa Coutinho Calheiros
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR/CIMAR), University of Porto, Novo Edifício do Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Avenida General Norton de Matos, S/N, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | | | | | - Grzegorz Mikusiński
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences SLU, School for Forest Management, BOX 43, 739 21, Skinnskatteberg, Sweden
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Gong Y, Li Y, Sun Y. Waste sorting behaviors promote subjective well-being: A perspective of the self-nature association. Waste Manag 2023; 157:249-255. [PMID: 36577276 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As one of the most important pro-environmental behaviors, individuals' waste sorting behaviors are positively associated with their subjective well-being. This relationship is usually explained by the "self-other association", regarding waste sorting behaviors as pro-social deeds, thus elevating people's positive self-perception and strengthening a sense of interpersonal relatedness. Distinct from the general "good deeds", the ultimate beneficiary of waste sorting behaviors is the natural environment instead of other people, so the mechanism underlying the positive relationship between performing a general good deed and subjective well-being might not suffice to explain the positive association between waste sorting behaviors and subjective well-being. The current study proposed the "self-nature association" with the cognitive (i.e., environmental perception) and the affective (i.e., nature connectedness) pathways. Using a large sample national survey in China (N = 4,705), we confirmed the positive link between waste sorting behaviors and subjective well-being, and the dual pathway was verified by a parallel mediation analysis. The theoretical and practical values of the present work were further explicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Business, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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Richardson M, Hamlin I, Elliott LR, White MP. Country-level factors in a failing relationship with nature: Nature connectedness as a key metric for a sustainable future. Ambio 2022; 51:2201-2213. [PMID: 35641693 PMCID: PMC9481760 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01744-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Climate change and biodiversity loss show that the human-nature relationship is failing. That relationship can be measured through the construct of nature connectedness which is a key factor in pro-environmental behaviours and mental well-being. Country-level indicators of extinction of nature experience, consumption and commerce, use and control of nature and negativistic factors were selected. An exploratory analysis of the relationship between these metrics and nature connectedness across adult samples from 14 European countries was conducted (n = 14,745 respondents). The analysis provides insight into how affluence, technology and consumption are associated with the human-nature relationship. These findings motivate a comparison of how nature connectedness and composite indicators of prosperity, progress, development, and sustainability relate to indicators of human and nature's well-being. In comparison to composite indexes, it is proposed that nature connectedness is a critical indicator of human and nature's well-being needed to inform the transition to a sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miles Richardson
- School of Psychology, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, UK
| | - Iain Hamlin
- School of Psychology, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, UK
| | - Lewis R. Elliott
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, c/o Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall UK
| | - Mathew P. White
- Cognitive Science HUB, University of Vienna, Kolingasse 14/16, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Tiscareno-Osorno X, Hossaini J, Chabursky S, Sayed N, Temizarabaci I, Hähl W, Beckmann J. Does socioeconomic position and gender affect human-nature interactions? Z Gesundh Wiss 2022; 31:1-8. [PMID: 36277027 PMCID: PMC9579578 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-022-01762-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Aim The growing number of mental health problems worldwide is alarming. Encouraging human-nature interactions (HNIs) could help to tackle this issue. For this reason, the aim of the present research was to investigate certain components that promote HNI in two groups of students with different socioeconomic positions (SEPs) in Mexico. HNIs describe the direct relationship between humans and nature. HNIs are composed of elements such as connectedness to nature (CN) and commitment to the environment (CE), and are beneficial to both physical and mental health. However, the impact of CN and CE on people's lives seems to depend on their SEP, which has been investigated mainly in developed countries where SEP is less salient compared with developing countries. Methods A survey was sent to students from two universities representing each group. A total of 210 surveys was collected. Results The results showed no differences in CN (p = .480) and CE (p = .421) regarding SEP. However, gender differences were found with females from a low SEP showing higher levels of CN than men (p = .015) from the same SEP. For high SEP, no differences were found. In addition, men showed a higher CE than women, regardless of their SEP. Conclusion Given the high vulnerability of women to mental health problems, it is of major importance to conduct more research considering the relationship between gender, HNI, SEP, and health in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena Tiscareno-Osorno
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Jihad Hossaini
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Sophia Chabursky
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Nesma Sayed
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Ilayda Temizarabaci
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Wiebke Hähl
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
| | - Jürgen Beckmann
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60_62/IV., 80992 München, Germany
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Cao Y, Li H. Harmony Between Humanity and Nature: Natural Vs. Synthetic Drug Preference in Chinese Atheists and Taoists. J Relig Health 2022; 61:2743-2752. [PMID: 34146204 PMCID: PMC8214046 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-021-01314-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A commonplace observation across many cultures is that humans show a strong preference for natural items on drug choice in the medical domain. Despite an emerging line of psychological research on individual differences in the naturalness-is-better bias, few studies have focused on the role of religious beliefs. According to the core idea of Taoism, people should free themselves from selfishness and desire and behave in concert with the alternating cycles of Nature. Based on the findings regarding the positive relationship between connectedness to nature and naturalness preference, we predict that Taoists, who emphasize harmony between humanity and nature, should show a stronger naturalness-is-better bias than atheists on drug choice due to their higher level of natural connectedness. The results showed that both Chinese atheists and Taoists selected a natural over synthetic drug even though the safety and efficacy of the medicines were described as identical. More importantly, the naturalness-is-better bias is more pronounced in Taoists than atheists. These data suggest that religious beliefs related to individuals' connectedness to nature may moderate the naturalness-is-better bias in health decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cao
- School of Foreign Languages, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China
| | - Heng Li
- College of International Studies, Southwest University, Tianshengqiao Road, Beibei, Chongqing, China.
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11
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Setti A, Lionetti F, Kagari RL, Motherway L, Pluess M. The temperament trait of environmental sensitivity is associated with connectedness to nature and affinity to animals. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09861. [PMID: 35859641 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Heightened sensitivity to the environment characterizes approximately 30% of the population and is associated with a higher reactivity, positive or negative, to the surrounding environment. Little attention has been devoted to study the association between this trait and the response to nature and animals, despite the potential benefits of the natural environment for highly sensitive individuals. In the present two studies (N = 241, 83% female, age M = 37.43, SD = 13.5; N = 144, 92% female, age M = 39.9, SD = 13.1) we assessed the association of sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), measured with the Highly Sensitive Person scale, with nature and animal affinity. In both studies, we found SPS to predict higher connectedness to nature. In addition, whilst there was no association between high SPS and attachment to pets in Study 1, in Study 2 SPS was predictive of a higher animal affinity, assessed in terms of stewardship and protection of animals. The present studies provide the first quantitative empirical evidence that highly sensitive individuals are more connected with nature and animals, therefore opening the possibility to explore nature based solutions to improve the quality of life in individuals scoring high in SPS.
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12
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Schunko C, Brandner A. Urban nature at the fingertips: Investigating wild food foraging to enable nature interactions of urban dwellers. Ambio 2022; 51:1168-1178. [PMID: 34709589 PMCID: PMC8552430 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01648-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Meaningful human-nature interactions can counteract the extinction of experience and positively influence people's nature relatedness, health and wellbeing. In this study, we explored urban wild food foraging to understand how best to enable human-nature interactions in cities by means of foraging. Using a structured questionnaire, a total of 458 residents of Vienna, Austria were surveyed. Sixty-four percent of visitors of public urban green spaces previously foraged for wild food species, whereas foraging frequencies were related to the targeted plant species and their life forms. People who foraged more frequently had greater nature relatedness, more childhood foraging experiences and lived on the outskirts of the city, but their socio-demographic backgrounds were heterogeneous. Social acceptance and lack of access to wild foods were perceived to be barriers. To promote nature relatedness through urban foraging, the legal framework, access to low-contamination foraging areas, availability of wild foods and social acceptance need to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Schunko
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anjoulie Brandner
- University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
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Moula Z, Walshe N, Lee E. Making Nature Explicit in Children's Drawings of Wellbeing and Happy Spaces. Child Indic Res 2021; 14:1653-1675. [PMID: 33782635 PMCID: PMC7990495 DOI: 10.1007/s12187-021-09811-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Previous research on children's wellbeing indicators has focused extensively on adults', rather than children's perspectives, despite there being a broad consensus that children's conceptualisations differ significantly from adults'. In response, this study aimed to explore what constitutes children's wellbeing through their drawings and discussions. Ninety-one seven and eight-year old children from two primary schools in areas of relatively high deprivation in eastern England participated in this study. We identified indicators of wellbeing that were made explicit in children's drawings, such as the need for safety, happiness and positive relationships, but also indicators that remained rather implicit, such as the environment and nature. The drawings in particular illustrated that children's perceptions of wellbeing were subject to the affordances of their favourite spaces for emotional, mental physical and material wellbeing. Access to nature and outdoor spaces was interconnected with all these affordances. We analysed these findings through the theoretical lenses of positive psychology, self-actualisation, social mentality and the human-nature relationship. We argue that making nature explicit, and restoring the interconnectedness between the arts and nature in the current literature, should be a key priority for future research and practice on children's wellbeing indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Moula
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicola Walshe
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Elsa Lee
- Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
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Yeo N, White M, Alcock I, Garside R, Dean S, Smalley A, Gatersleben B. What is the best way of delivering virtual nature for improving mood? An experimental comparison of high definition TV, 360° video, and computer generated virtual reality. J Environ Psychol 2020; 72:101500. [PMID: 33390641 PMCID: PMC7772948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2020.101500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to 'real' nature can increase positive affect and decrease negative affect, but direct access is not always possible, e.g. for people in health/care settings who often experience chronic boredom. In these settings 'virtual' forms of nature may also have mood-related benefits (e.g. reducing boredom) but it has been difficult to separate effects of nature content from those of delivery mode. The present laboratory-based study explored whether exposure to three different delivery modes of virtual nature could reduce negative affect (including boredom) and/or increase positive affect. Adult volunteer participants (n = 96) took part in a boredom induction task (to simulate the emotional state of many people in health/care settings) before being randomly assigned to view/interact with a virtual underwater coral reef in one of three experimental conditions: (a) 2D video viewed on a high-definition TV screen; (b) 3600 video VR (360-VR) viewed via a head mounted display (HMD); or (c) interactive computer-generated VR (CG-VR), also viewed via a HMD and interacted with using a hand-held controller. Visual and auditory content was closely matched across conditions with help from the BBC's Blue Planet II series team. Supporting predictions, virtual exposure to a coral reef reduced boredom and negative affect and increased positive affect and nature connectedness. Although reductions in boredom and negative affect were similar across all three conditions, CG-VR was associated with significantly greater improvements in positive affect than TV, which were mediated by greater experienced presence and increases in nature connectedness. Results improve our understanding of the importance of virtual nature delivery mode and will inform studies in real care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- N.L. Yeo
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK
- Corresponding author. European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, E, UK.
| | - M.P. White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK
- Urban and Environmental Psychology Group, Cognitive Science Hub, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - I. Alcock
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK
| | - R. Garside
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK
| | - S.G. Dean
- NIHR CLAHRC South West Peninsula, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, UK
- Clinical Trials Unit, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, UK
| | - A.J. Smalley
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3HD, UK
| | - B. Gatersleben
- Environmental Psychology Research Group, School of Psychology, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH, UK
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Robinson JM, Breed MF. The Lovebug Effect: Is the human biophilic drive influenced by interactions between the host, the environment, and the microbiome? Sci Total Environ 2020; 720:137626. [PMID: 32146404 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Psychological frameworks are often used to investigate the mechanisms involved with our affinity towards, and connection with nature--such as the Biophilia Hypothesis and Nature Connectedness. Recent revelations from microbiome science suggest that animal behaviour can be strongly influenced by the host's microbiome--for example, via the bidirectional communication properties of the gut-brain axis. Here, we build on this theory to hypothesise that a microbially-influenced mechanism could also contribute to the human biophilic drive - the tendency for humans to affiliate and connect with nature. Humans may be at an evolutionary advantage through health-regulating exchange of environmental microbiota, which in turn could influence our nature affinity. We present a conceptual model for microbially-influenced nature affinity, calling it the Lovebug Effect. We present an overview of the potential mechanistic pathways involved in the Lovebug Effect, and consider its dependence on the hologenome concept of evolution, direct behavioural manipulation, and host-microbiota associated phenotypes independent of these concepts. We also discuss its implications for human health and ecological resilience. Finally, we highlight several possible approaches to scrutinise the hypothesis. The Lovebug Effect could have important implications for our understanding of exposure to natural environments for health and wellbeing, and could contribute to an ecologically resilient future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake M Robinson
- Department of Landscape, The University of Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK; inVIVO Planetary Health, of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), NJ 10704, USA; The Healthy Urban Microbiome Initiative (HUMI), Australia.
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; The Healthy Urban Microbiome Initiative (HUMI), Australia
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