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Recognizing Patterns of Nature Contact Associated with Well-Being: An Exploratory Cluster Analysis

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  • Adriano Bressane

    (Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12209-904, Brazil
    Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Bauru 17033-360, Brazil)

  • Joao Pedro da Cunha Pinto

    (Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Bauru 17033-360, Brazil)

  • Líliam César de Castro Medeiros

    (Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12209-904, Brazil)

Abstract

Statement of Problem : Progressive urbanization has reduced human interactions with nature, raising concerns about its impact on mental well-being. Previous research has often focused on specific aspects of nature contact, neglecting its multifaceted dimensions and their effects on mental health, particularly in developing countries. Research Gap : There is a scarcity of studies exploring the comprehensive dimensions of nature contact, such as frequency, duration, intensity, and space naturalness, and their correlation with mental well-being in developing countries’ urban settings. Purpose : This study aims to identify patterns of nature contact related to mental well-being in metropolitan areas of Brazil using exploratory cluster analysis, bridging the existing knowledge gap and informing targeted interventions to enhance mental health through nature contact. Method : An online survey collected data from 2136 participants in Brazil’s metropolitan areas, focusing on their nature interaction patterns and mental health status using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), hierarchical clustering with p -values via multiscale bootstrap resampling, and analysis of variance. Results and Conclusions : Three distinct groups were identified, showing varied patterns of nature contact and demographic profiles. Greater and more frequent nature contact was associated with lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings suggest a beneficial relationship between nature contact and mental well-being. Practical Implications : The results underline the importance of urban planning and public health policies that facilitate access to natural spaces, highlighting socioeconomic factors as significant barriers to this access. Future Directions : Further research should explore causal relationships and consider the specific realities and challenges faced by residents of developing nations.

Suggested Citation

  • Adriano Bressane & Joao Pedro da Cunha Pinto & Líliam César de Castro Medeiros, 2024. "Recognizing Patterns of Nature Contact Associated with Well-Being: An Exploratory Cluster Analysis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(6), pages 1-14, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:6:p:706-:d:1405618
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jingni Ma, 2022. "Interaction with Nature Indoor: Psychological Impacts of Houseplants Care Behaviour on Mental Well-Being and Mindfulness in Chinese Adults," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(23), pages 1-14, November.
    2. Bongiorno, Christian & Miccichè, Salvatore & Mantegna, Rosario N., 2022. "Statistically validated hierarchical clustering: Nested partitions in hierarchical trees," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 593(C).
    3. Maria Ignatieva & Diana Dushkova & Daniel Jan Martin & Fahimeh Mofrad & Katherine Stewart & Michael Hughes, 2023. "From One to Many Natures: Integrating Divergent Urban Nature Visions to Support Nature-Based Solutions in Australia and Europe," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-29, March.
    4. Ferdinando Fornara & Elena Rinallo & Massimiliano Scopelliti, 2023. "Contact with Nature in Social Deprivation during COVID-19: The Positive Impact on Anxiety," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(14), pages 1-14, July.
    5. Rachel R. Y. Oh & Kelly S. Fielding & Chia-Chen Chang & Le T. P. Nghiem & Claudia L. Y. Tan & Shimona A. Quazi & Danielle F. Shanahan & Kevin J. Gaston & Roman L. Carrasco & Richard A. Fuller, 2021. "Health and Wellbeing Benefits from Nature Experiences in Tropical Settings Depend on Strength of Connection to Nature," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(19), pages 1-16, September.
    6. Christian Bongiorno & Salvatore Miccichè & Rosario N Mantegna, 2022. "Statistically validated hierarchical clustering: Nested partitions in hierarchical trees," Post-Print hal-02157744, HAL.
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