Toward a Theory of Nature Experience and Health

Abstract

This article presents an integrated theoretical framework to study the socioenvironmental attributes of the nature experience as a basic health behavior. After first reviewing existing literature on theories behind nature exposure, we discuss social cognitive theory (SCT) to explain individual nature experience through the model's triadic dynamic of environment, cognitions, and behaviors. We then expand beyond SCT's focus on the individual to examine structural and societal spheres of influence on nature experience found in ecological systems theory and ecosocial theory. In moving from proximal to distal influences, we identify the core constructs of each theory that may reinforce or deter decisions inclining individuals toward nature engagement. In synthesizing aspects of these three theories, we propose an integrated theoretical framework of nature experience distinguished by three ideas. First, individual-level formative influences in nature pervade higher level ecologies as a learned social behavior. Second, nature experience happens within multiple systems and timepoints. Third, social relationships within historical processes shape contextual factors of the nature experience, resulting in disparities in nature access and nature responses that manifest heterogeneously. Theorizing behind nature experience can inform why this occurs. We offer suggestions for further research to build on the groundwork put forth here: for hypothesizing around present observations, for collecting data to confirm and/or refute parts of the theory, and for further hypothesis generation inspired by the theory to inform the research agenda. In conclusion, we consider the practical implications of theory underlying nature experience as a health behavior relevant to research, interventions, and policy.

A framework for understanding the human experience of nature through cognitive mapping

“…These dimensions were previously undefined and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the nature experience. These dimensions and the 33 related components correspond to themes proposed previously and encapsulate specific aspects of both dimensions and components (e.g., Pollio & Heaps, 2004;Pramova et al, 2022;Tomasso & Chen, 2022). This study is the first to concentrate empirically on the emergence of various dimensions of nature experience itself, rather than the outcomes such as personal nature connection or benefits derived from nature (e.g., Fleming & Shwartz, 2023;Hatty et al, 2020;Nisbet et al, 2009;Whitburn et al, 2020).…”

“…We sought to identify which components constitute nature experience and to understand how these components are related to each other to form dimensions of experience. We expected that the dimensions we uncover would align with, and provide empirical support to, the theorized frameworks (e.g., Pramova et al, 2022;Tomasso & Chen, 2022). Additionally, we aimed to explore how the dimensions of the experience of nature vary among countries.…”

“…Time or frequency of being in nature is often used as a proxy for nature interactions to assess the impact of nature experience on health, well‐being, connectedness to nature, proenvironmental attitudes, and behaviors (e.g., Collado et al., 2015; Cox et al., 2017; Ferraro et al., 2020; Sato & Conner, 2013; Wells & Lekies, 2006). This important and vast literature demonstrates that spending time or activities in nature has diverse physical and mental health benefits, including faster recovery from illness and reduction in mental burden (Bratman et al., 2012; Jimenez et al., 2021; Tomasso & Chen, 2022). Examples of other well‐being benefits from nature are personal satisfaction (Egerer et al., 2018) and feeling that one's life is worthwhile (Fretwell & Greig, 2019).…”

“…Building on dimensions of the concept of place, Pramova et al (2022) theorized that a framework for the experience of nature includes sensory experiences, cognitive experiences, and affective experiences, all of which stem from settings and activities. Tomasso and Chen (2022) theorized that such a framework includes experiences that take place in a specific context, including one's social networks, community, and regulatory environments, where expectations, expectancies, and self-efficacy modify mechanisms (e.g., activities, stress reduction, etc.) through emotional responses that occur in nature.…”

Desde la actividad turística botánica hasta el desarrollo ecosocial

“…Se promueve el compromiso con la naturaleza, impulsando la conservación y acceso a espacios naturales, especialmente en áreas urbanas. Al integrar la naturaleza en nuestro estilo de vida y priorizar su usamos, mejoramos nuestra salud y bienestar, así como el medio ambiente (Tomasso & Chen, 2022). Etapa 15: Ecología ocupacional.…”