A (Geo-)Narrative Analysis of Children’s Perceptions of Wellbeing in Relation to Nature as the Basis for Educational Intervention Planning

Abstract

Scholarly endeavors in psychology, environmental, and geographies of health research have shown that the exposure to natural spaces influences children’s wellbeing. However, little is known regarding the experiences that influence children’s feelings of wellbeing for those who live in natural environments. This study investigates the perceptions of nature and wellbeing of 10 children living next to the Altos de Lircay Reserve (Chile). A geo-narrative analysis of the interviews shows that participants living closest to the reserve relate nature to their physical wellbeing, while those living further away often relate it to their psychological wellbeing. Recommendations to plan interventions that improve the children-nature connection are provided.