Children's Connectedness to Nature and Wellbeing

Due to an increase in children’s mental health issues, psychologists are trying to identify how mental wellbeing and quality of life can be improved. Previous research has indicated that connecting and engaging with nature in a variety of settings affects children’s wellbeing in a positive manner. However, nowadays children are spending less time in contact with nature and this lifestyle change has had a negative effect on children’s wellbeing. The study at hand aimed it investigates the link between connection to nature, wellbeing and quality of life in children. Additionally, the researched aimed to explore whether age, gender, pet ownership, school location, time spent with technology and time spent outdoors would influence children’s connection to nature. The study was conducted using a quantitative cross-sectional survey design of 285 participants (160 females, 125 male). Participants filled out a survey comprised of the Connection to Nature Index, the KIDSCREEN-10 Index and Stirling Children’s Wellbeing Scale. Analysis was conducted using t-tests, ANOVA’s and regression analysis. Results showed that a child’s level of connectedness impacted their wellbeing and quality of life. Furthermore, analysis revealed that age, gender, pet ownership, time outside and time spent with technology significantly impacted a child’s connectedness to nature. However, no significant associations were found between urban and rural schools. The researcher suggests that future studies consider using a larger sample size and multiple nationalities. Finally, the results can help determine which aspects of nature help create a deeper connection to nature and how this connection can improve their wellbeing.