Kaplan, S., 1995, The restorative benefits of nature: toward an integrative framework, in: Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15, 3
- Author : Kaplan, S.
- Year : 1995
- Journal/Series : Journal of Environmental Psychology
- Volume Number (ANNUAL: Counting Volumes of the Year shown above) : 3
- Volume Number (CONSECUTIVE: Counting all Volumes of this Journal ever published) : 15
- Pages : 169-182
- Abstract in English : Evidence pointing to the psychological benefits of nature has accumulated at a remarkable rate in a relatively short period of time. Whether a theoretical understanding of these restorative influences has kept pace with the empirical work is, however less clear. The purpose of this paper has been to propose a framework that distinguishes between the stress-related and the attentional components that lead people to seek and benefit from restorative experiences. Integration is proposed. This integration makes a contribution to a larger theory of how humans relate to their environment. It points tot the significant role that directed attention plays in coping with challenges. In this perspective the role that natural environments play is a powerful one. Experience in natural environments can not only help mitigate stress; it can also prevent it though aiding in the recovering of this essential resource.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: environmental psychology, Attention Restoration Theory, stress, mental restoration, restorative environments, nature, being away, fascination, extent, compatibility. UTILITY: lecturers/teachers, academic research.