The connectedness model and optimal development: Is ecopsychology the answer to emotional well-being?

Abstract

To help mitigate the impact of multi-environmental degradation, I have constructed, implemented, and researched a program for emotionally at-risk children using nature in a therapeutic format. Based on the Piers-Harris self-concept scale and person drawings, the children demonstrated a post-program increase in self-esteem (p < .001), happiness, educational status, and emotional development (p < .001). They also demonstrated enhanced perceptual skills, self-efficacy, empathy and a significant reduction in aggression. Basically, they were able to develop their emotional health (or intellect). This research sets out a conceptual definition of ecopsychology and supports a new theory of development challenging the ideation of the isolated self and affirms that a child's psyche is part of a vast synergistic model of connections.

The relationship between nature relatedness and anxiety

“…From this perspective, the natural world is not separate from humanity; but it is at the 4 very core of humanity, even if we live in a material and cultural world which may attempt to deny recognition of this fact. Feelings of connection, unity or being a part of the natural world, according to this perspective, are a causal step to psychological health (Feral, 1998).Thus feelings of connection to nature would be expected to correlate with reduced anxiety (Besthorn & Canada, 2002;Mayer & Frantz, 2004;White, 2011). As anxiety is a mental health problem with increasing prevalence, creating further understanding of the anxiety-nature relationship would be beneficial.…”

Connection to Nature and Psychological Resilience

“…Although the positive mental health characteristics of connecting with nature have often been associated with spirituality (Barlett, 2005;Feral, 1998;Glassman, 1995;Kaplan & Talbot, 1983;Merkl, 1995), studies of restorative environments have shown that simply spending time in natural settings can also lead to reduced stress or a quicker recovery from stress (Heerwagen, 1990;Parsons et al, 1998;Ulrich, 1993;Ulrich et al, 1991;Wells & Evans, 2003). Mayer and Frantz (2004) found evidence that spending time in natural settings is correlated with a sensed connection with the natural world.…”

Film, Literature, and Education: Trace of Ecopsychology Research in Indonesia

“…Feral (1998Feral ( & 1999 uses ecopsychology for children therapy; Rhodes (2008) uses ecopsychology in modern day human therapy through ecospiritual and ecofeminism; Wood (2010) uses ecopsychology with ecospiritual therapy; Burn (2012) & Tudor (2013 use ecopsychology for ecotherapy that leads to self-therapy; Hafford (2014) uses ecopsychology for adventure therapy; And Black (2015) uses ecopsychology for natural therapy of healing.…”