Nature activities and wellbeing in children and young people: a systematic literature review

ABSTRACT

Research suggests that experience of the natural environment may have a range of beneficial outcomes for children and young people. A systematic review of the peer-reviewed empirical literature focused on research involving direct interaction with nature amongst children and young people and its impact on wellbeing; 14 papers, within the domains of childhood and adolescence, were identified for inclusion in the review. Within these domains, a range of wellbeing outcomes were identified and grouped into thematic areas of self-esteem and confidence, positive and negative affect, stress reduction and restoration, social benefits, and resilience. Findings related to wellbeing outcomes were synthesised and critiqued, and research and clinical implications discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Nature
• wellbeing
• resilience
• children
• young people

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The research was funded by the UK National Health Service (NHS).

Notes on contributors

Anna Roberts

Anna Roberts is a Clinical Psychologist working in a specialist community perinatal mental health service. Her research interests include the impact of the natural environment on wellbeing and mental health interventions during the perinatal period.

Joe Hinds

Joe Hinds is a Senior Lecturer in Psychotherapy at University of Greenwich, UK and an Integrative Psychotherapist (UKCP; MBACP). He has published a number of papers related to the relationship between the natural environment and psychological wellbeing including a recent co-edited volume (Ecotherapy) that examines the diverse psychotherapeutic ways of encountering nature. He has a passion for the outdoors and spends time in nature as a therapist, researcher, and for relaxation as often as he can.

Paul M. Camic

Paul M. Camic is Professor of Psychology & Public Health, Canterbury Christ Church University and Honorary Professor of Health Psychology, UCL Dementia Research Centre. He is a clinical health psychologist and a public health researcher.