ijerph-18-04785-v2.pdf (695.57 kB)
Enhancing Nature Connection and Positive Affect in Children through Mindful Engagement with Natural Environments
journal contribution
posted on 2022-01-13, 12:37 authored by Alexia BarrableAlexia Barrable, David Booth, Dylan Adams, Gary BeauchampNature connection, which describes a positive relationship between humans and the rest of nature, has been recognised as a worthwhile goal of all education. Given its association with wellbeing, as well as the fact that it can predict ecological behaviours in children, there have been several calls for it to become central to environmental education, and an important tool in tackling climate change. Previous research has reported the success of short-term interventions in increasing nature connection in children, but to date no empirical studies have looked at how mindful engagement with nature can promote both nature connection and positive affect. This study took place in a nature reserve in Wales and included n = 74 children, aged 9–10, who took part in three mindful activities. Pre- and post- measures included nature connection and positive/negative affect. Analysis showed a significant small to medium effect of the activity on nature connection. Moreover, positive affect significantly increased post-activity, while negative affect showed a small decrease
History
Published in
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public HealthPublisher
MDPIAcceptance Date
2021-04-22Publication Date
2021-04-30Version
- VoR (Version of Record)
Citation
Barrable A, Booth D, Adams D, Beauchamp G. (2021) 'Enhancing Nature Connection and Positive Affect in Children through Mindful Engagement with Natural Environments', International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18 (9):4785. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094785Electronic ISSN
1660-4601Cardiff Met Affiliation
- Cardiff School of Education and Social Policy
Cardiff Met Authors
Dylan Adams Gary BeauchampCopyright Holder
- © The Authors
Language
- en