Researcher ORCID Identifier
Graduation Year
2021
Document Type
Open Access Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Environmental Analysis
Reader 1
Char Miller
Reader 2
Marc Los Huertos
Terms of Use & License Information
Rights Information
© 2021 Claire Generous
Abstract
In 2005, the term Nature-deficit disorder was coined by Richard Louv to describe the childhood costs of alienation from nature including diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. The increasing use of technology, stricter parenting, local ordinances, biophobia, socioeconomic status, and coronavirus all contribute to Nature-deficit disorder. To mitigate and reverse Nature-deficit disorder and its consequences, children must connect with nature. Nature connection improves children’s health and wellbeing and increases environmentally responsible behavior. Nature connection can improve physical, spiritual, psychological, and social wellbeing. Children who spend more time in nature report lower rates of depression and reduced stress.
In my thesis, I explore how children connect to nature, the benefits from such connection, and the role environmental education has in increasing children’s learning experiences in nature; feature environmental education’s efforts to incorporate Indigenous worldviews, traditional ecological knowledge, and ways of relating to the natural world; and highlight Forest Schools’ efforts to implement hands-on, play-based, child-led, and outdoors-centered learning. I argue that environmental education is uniquely positioned to connect children with nature through Indigenous environmental education programs and Forest Schools, thereby improving childhood wellbeing and promoting environmental stewardship.
Recommended Citation
Generous, Claire, "Connecting Youth to Nature: Environmental Education’s Role in the Future of Wellbeing and Stewardship" (2021). Pomona Senior Theses. 249.
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/pomona_theses/249
