A generational relational model of nature and mental wellbeing: results of a qualitative analysis.
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Authors
Bunce, Hannah L I
Owens, Matthew
Issue Date
2025-03-24
Type
Journal Article
Language
en
Keywords
Cognitive Analytic Therapy , nature-connection , qualitative , relational , wellbeing
Alternative Title
Abstract
Introduction: There is a developing evidence base for the benefits of natural environments for health and mental wellbeing. However, given the increasing urbanisation of our planet and subsequent disconnection from our natural world, there is a danger that we may ultimately suffer from a nature 'generational amnesia'. The facets and mechanisms underpinning these relationships are poorly understood and theoretical frameworks are needed to aid further research. There is a paucity of research into the lived experiences of people with good wellbeing and their nature experiences, which has the potential to elucidate key elements of the nature-wellbeing relationship.
Methods: The current study used a qualitative design to explore themes concerning the lived experiences with nature, of 12 people with self-reported good wellbeing. Semi-structured interviews were carried out and data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results: Two overarching themes of human-nature relationship and self-regulation encapsulated the data. Within the first, there were two superordinate themes of developmental and nature interconnectedness. Self-regulation consisted of managing health and flourishing.
Discussion: A theoretical model is proposed to help better understand these relational themes in a generational context. The model is informed by Cognitive Analytic Therapy and attachment theory and generates testable hypotheses for future research.
Description
© 2025 Bunce and Owens. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms
Citation
Bunce, H. and Owens, M. (2025) 'A generational relational model of nature and mental wellbeing: results of a qualitative analysis', Frontiers in Psychology 16. Available At: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1469507
Publisher
Frontiers
License
Copyright © 2025 Bunce and Owens.
Journal
Frontiers in psychology
Volume
16
Issue
PubMed ID
ISSN
1664-1078