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Nature walk and its relationship with stress and affect
Author
Tan, Chen Yeh
Supervisor
D'Rozario, Vilma
Abstract
Nature exposure has long been regarded as having positive psychological impact and has often been incorporated in psychotherapy. This qualitative study attempted to explore the underlying factors which contributed to enhanced psychological outcome. Forty-five participants participated in a nature walk at the Lower Peirce Reservoir Park. Participants completed a questionnaire consisting of Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and a likert scale rating of stress level before and after the nature walk. A paired sample t-test revealed a significant increase in self-reported positive affect and decrease of stress level after the walk. Eight participants were then selected to be interviewed based on their pre- and post-walk results. A qualitative analysis was conducted to explore the experiences of the eight interviewees. Using grounded theory approach, the interviewees’ responses were analysed by themes and further categorised into main categories. A total of 24 themes and 13 categories were found. The results suggested that there was a myriad of factors and an interaction of characteristics from nature and the participants that contributed to the participants’ nature walk experiences and psychological outcomes. The findings could inform future decisions regarding urban landscape design and psychotherapy.
Date Issued
2018
Call Number
BF575.H27 Tan
Date Submitted
2018