Nature connectedness is an important construct for understanding how adolescents and young adults interact with the environment and its impact on psychological and social well-being. This systematic review synthesizes the scientific literature on nature connectedness in individuals aged 11–26 years and assesses its impact on mental health, pro-environmental behaviour and social cohesion. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of seven databases identified 352 articles, of which 63 met the inclusion criteria. The thematic analysis revealed four main themes: (1) the role of nature connection in improving mental well-being, (2) its influence in promoting pro-environmental behaviour and sustainability, (3) the interaction between technology use and nature connection, and (4) nature's contribution to social connectedness. The findings highlight the multiple benefits of connecting with nature, particularly in promoting mental health, environmental stewardship and social inclusion. These findings have valuable implications for the design of interventions to support the well-being of young people in urban and multicultural contexts.
Nature connectedness in adolescents and young adults: a systematic review
Madera F.;Olcese M.;Cardinali P.;Migliorini L.
2025-01-01
Abstract
Nature connectedness is an important construct for understanding how adolescents and young adults interact with the environment and its impact on psychological and social well-being. This systematic review synthesizes the scientific literature on nature connectedness in individuals aged 11–26 years and assesses its impact on mental health, pro-environmental behaviour and social cohesion. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of seven databases identified 352 articles, of which 63 met the inclusion criteria. The thematic analysis revealed four main themes: (1) the role of nature connection in improving mental well-being, (2) its influence in promoting pro-environmental behaviour and sustainability, (3) the interaction between technology use and nature connection, and (4) nature's contribution to social connectedness. The findings highlight the multiple benefits of connecting with nature, particularly in promoting mental health, environmental stewardship and social inclusion. These findings have valuable implications for the design of interventions to support the well-being of young people in urban and multicultural contexts.
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