RESEARCH

Caring Local Biodiversity in a Healing Garden: Therapeutic Benefits in Young Subjects with Autism

This study found that a healing garden program focused on local biodiversity improved social skills and interpersonal relationships in young people with ASD. The results demonstrate that healing gardens can offer both therapeutic benefits and contribute to biodiversity conservation.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Neurodevelopmental Differences

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function, Sensory Stimulation

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Observational Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Free

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Summary

This study explored how caring for local plant biodiversity in a healing garden could benefit young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Researchers created a garden with local crop varieties and involved a group of young people with ASD in taking care of it. They found that this approach improved the participants’ social skills and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, the researchers identified plant characteristics that could be useful for selecting and evaluating local plant varieties. The study suggests that healing gardens can promote both health and environmental benefits by improving well-being and conserving local biodiversity.

The researchers concluded that involving young people with ASD in caring for local biodiversity within a healing garden setting can lead to significant improvements in their social skills and overall well-being. This approach also contributes to the conservation and appreciation of local plant varieties, highlighting the potential of healing gardens to address both human health and environmental sustainability.

Link

Scartazza, Andrea, et al. “Caring Local Biodiversity in a Healing Garden: Therapeutic Benefits in Young Subjects with Autism.” Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, vol. 47, Jan. 2020, p. 126511

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