The impact of natural environments and biophilic design as supportive and nurturing spaces on a residential college campus

Abstract

With so many college students experiencing disengagement, the physical design of a college and the connection to its natural surroundings has the potential for profound change. Natural environments, even viewing pictures of them, have the potential to positively impact parasympathetic nervous systems, increase cognitive functioning, and improve attention. This study investigated college student perceptions of their personal well-being with attention to coping, self-esteem, and physical health in a residential academic setting in the northeastern United States. Female students reported less resiliency, lower self-esteem, and a decreased ability to choose positive health behaviors than male students. Findings point to the potential for the built environment on a college campus to be designed with biophilic elements to support and nurture students all year long.