Abstract
Nature connection (NC) is a psychological construct receiving increased attention in research. Also called nature connectedness or nature relatedness, NC refers to the extent to which one feels a part of nature. NC has been linked to a number of positive outcomes in research including increased eudaimonic well-being, life-satisfaction and pro-environmental behaviours. Research indicates that NC declines in the teenage years. Studies seeking to evaluate interventions aimed at increasing NC among teens have largely focused on nature-engagement or environmental education (EE) and have typically not sought the perspectives of young people. In a context of growing concern about planetary health and the mental health and well-being of children and young people, this study proposes that NC could be a helpful psychological construct for educational psychologists (EPs).
The literature review (part two) provides a critical evaluation of research on interventions aimed at increasing NC, followed by a summary of a scoping review of research on young people’s perspectives on nature.
The empirical report (part three) describes the process and results from the mixed-methods research in which urban teenagers’ views on nature ere explored using photo-elicitation interviews (PEI). The impact of the PEI on participant level of NC was measured using the Nature Connection Index – a six-item questionnaire.
Analysis of the quantitative data indicates that significant change in NC did not occur. Analysis of the qualitative data led to the generation of systemic and internal barriers and facilitators to urban young people’s formation of a relationship with nature.
Part four outlines a critical evaluation of the research and recommendations for schools, educational psychologists and future research.