The effect of nature exposure and immersion on health, mental health and well-being has been extensively studied in environmental psychology and other fields. A review of the literature clearly indicates a positive impact of nature. Many theoretical models and empirical studies have been proposed to explain this positive relationship, but fewer have considered potential moderators. Is this positive impact of nature on well-being universal? Can everyone benefit from nature exposure and immersion? Recent theoretical and empirical research shows the need for a closer examination of moderators, such as individuals’ motivation to interact with nature, in order to better understand the relationship between nature and well-being and integrate nature immersion in health and mental health promotion and reduce ecological anxiety.
Dr. Frederick Grouzet is Associate Professor of Social Psychology and Director of UVic Centre for Youth and Society (CFYS). His research focus on motivation and self-regulation, mainly applied to psychological, social, and ecological well-being. While using mainly quantitative methods, Dr. Grouzet has recently engaged in more community-engaged and Indigenous research, using various qualitative approaches. He has presented his research in national and international conferences, published in the most prestigious scientific journals, and co-edited the book "Self-regulation and autonomy: Social and developmental dimensions of human conduct." His research has been funded by SSHRC grants, community agencies and local governments. He has been the Section Chair for Environmental Psychology (2005-2008) and Personality & Social Psychology (2015-2018), and served on CPA committees, such as Scientific Affairs and Convention committee.
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