Research on human–nature relationships suggests that both nature connectedness and engagement with natural environments are associated with better mental health, yet their respective associations with psychological resilience (RES) remain insufficiently understood. The present study examined the associations among nature connectedness, frequency of nature engagement (FNE), and RES, with particular attention to whether the data were consistent with an indirect association between nature connectedness and resilience through FNE. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 306 adults aged 18–75 years (M = 37.1, SD = 11.2). The hypothesized relations were tested using path analysis within a structural equation modeling framework. Nature connectedness was positively associated with FNE (β = 0.23), which in turn was positively associated with RES (β = 0.20). The model explained 4.8% of the variance in FNE and 4.1% of the variance in resilience. The conditional direct path between nature connectedness and resilience was not statistically significant, whereas the indirect association through FNE was significant. These findings indicate that the observed data are consistent with an indirect statistical association between nature connectedness and resilience through FNE.
Masculinity is a precarious and highly valued social identity. Threatening masculinity leads to a range of compensatory responses to recover manhood, which may also impact men’s engagement in sustainable behaviors. Men might embrace or avoid pro-environmentalism when a masculine or feminine gender identity is signaled. The current research applied gender socialization and identity maintenance to the context of environmentalism across two studies. Study 1 ( N = 394) assessed if pro-environmental behaviors, specifically those aligned with masculine norms, would be embraced as a recovery strategy in response to a general masculinity threat. Results showed an overall pattern of men with higher masculine identification distancing from all pro-environmental behaviors, demonstrating that even sustainable behaviors that align with masculine norms may have underlying feminine associations. Study 2 ( N = 890) examined whether a masculinity threat or affirmation would differentially impact engagement in masculine and feminine sustainable behaviors. Results showed that higher masculine identification increased willingness to engage in pro-environmental behaviors after a threat, and men at low levels of identification were bolstered by a masculinity affirmation. These results demonstrate that participants may embrace sustainability when it is temporarily reframed within masculine domain boundaries. This research provides insight into the environmentalism gender gap and highlights the importance of masculine identification in how men experience and recover from identity threats in sustainable contexts.
Holistic approaches to mental health that go beyond traditional medication-based therapies are often necessary for older adults (OAs). Forest bathing is a nature-based intervention that combines guided walks with mindfulness activities and has emerged as a complementary alternative to conventional therapies that promote mental well-being. However, most existing forest bathing programs are designed for the general population and may not adequately address the specific needs of OAs, particularly those experiencing mental health challenges. This feasibility study explored how forest bathing can be tailored for OAs. Using surveys, interviews, and focus groups with OAs (N = 15) and program delivery partners (N = 9), we found a synergistic effect of combining nature-based interventions with group-based program delivery. The program was seen by OAs as more than a nature experience, emphasizing improved social connection among those who experienced isolation and depression. The results highlight the importance of tailoring program content and delivery to accommodate diverse abilities, preferences, and life circumstances in later life. The study also proposes a practical implementation framework that integrates personal, social, environmental, and institutional dimensions to guide the design, adaptation, and integration of nature-based mental health programs for OAs.
