Raudsepp, M., 2005, Relations to forest and psychological well-being: an empirical study in Estonia, in: Gallis, C.T., ‘Forests, trees, and human health and well-being’, Siokis, Thessaloniki
- Author : Raudsepp, M.
- Year : 2005
- Published in Book : Forests, trees, and human health and well-being
- Pages : 81-91
- Abstract in English : The purpose of the study was to analyse whether and to what extent psychological well being is related to different kinds of natural environment and forest, manifested in various attitudes and behaviors towards nature. It was found that persons with high and low psychological well being are differentiated by certain sociodemographic characteristics (ethnicity, material well being), and relations to forest (forest ownership, frequency of outdoor activities, feelings towards nature). Associations between relationships to forest and psychological well being were compared among Estonians and Russians, urban and rural inhabitants, older and younger respondents. On the whole, psychological well being was positively associated with person’s direct and meaningful contacts with forest and natural environment. This association varied in different sociodemographic and cultural groups. In general, psychological well being of Estonians and persons with higher income is significantly higher compared to non-Estonians and persons with lower income. Persons with a greater income per family member and who are more satisfied with their material status, have higher scores of psychological well being compared to less affluent persons.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: urban forestry, well being, environmental psychology, income, sociodemographic groups.