Human–Animal Interactions: Expressions of Wellbeing through a “Nature Language”

Abstract

Human–animal interactions (HAIs) can be beneficial for humans in a number of ways, and interactions with wild animals may contribute to human mental wellbeing, partly through nature connectedness. This study applies the “Nature Interaction Pattern” approach (proposed by Kahn and colleagues) to characterize the structure of meaningful human engagement with nature and animals, and to consider the wellbeing outcomes. This qualitative, retrospective study uses open responses from 359 participants who describe how their wild animal encounters affected their nature connectedness. Thematic analysis explores five nature Interaction Patterns and four resulting Psychological Descriptions that occur in the portrayals of the marine animal encounters and these are described using representative quotes. Feelings of love, belonging, positive feelings, fulfillment and the gaining of perspective, were linked with the human–animal experience and the Interaction Patterns. These findings suggest that when people encounter and interact with animals in their natural environment, their mental health and wellbeing may be enhanced. Further, through connecting with nature and animals, reciprocity may occur, that is, when people connect with nature and animals, they can also give back. Within this interaction there becomes an entanglement of experiences thereby encouraging caring for nature and animals.

Classic Psychedelics and Human–Animal Relations

“…A sense of connectedness to the natural world can lead to a unifying experience with nature [8], a "commitment to protect the self" [9], and pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors [10,11]. Interaction with other animals can serve as a bridge to re-connect with nature [12]. Animals and humans can develop strong bonds and caring for an individual animal, and conditions affecting the animal's wellbeing can expand environmental concerns [13].…”

Measuring the Psychological Markers of Birds Encounter Using Virtual Reality Environments

“…When individuals spend time outdoors and interact with animals, they build stronger emotional ties, which may increase empathy, compassion, and involvement in environmental-friendly actions [6,7]. Interactions with animals may fulfill various functions in terms of fulfilling human needs [7,8]. Animals may assist people in meeting fundamental physiological and safety requirements (farming, housing, transportation, safeguarding, and resource collection) as well as higher psychological need (feelings of affection, belonging, respect, and fulfillment) [7].…”