RESEARCH

An Investigation into the Potential of Horticultural and Nature-Based Interventions for Change

This paper reviews how horticultural and nature-based interventions can improve well-being, especially in urban communities with limited green spaces, and suggests evaluation methods for a Cook County program.
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Summary

This paper explores the potential of horticultural and nature-based interventions to promote well-being, especially in marginalized urban communities with limited access to green spaces. A systematic literature review was conducted to assess the impacts of horticultural therapy and community interventions. It also explores methods to evaluate a Cook County program empowering high school students.

The review highlights that nature-based interventions can decrease anxiety and depression, improve self-esteem, and enhance attention and behavior, particularly in children. Various mental health measurements like the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Depression Anxiety Scale, alongside leadership measurements and physiological effect evaluations (salivary cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure), are suggested for assessing the impact of these interventions. The study concludes that utilizing multiple evaluation methods can depict the transformational effects of nature-based interventions on overall wellness.

Link

Guenther, M.E.L. (2021). An investigation into the potential of horticultural and nature-based interventions for change. Journal of Undergraduate Social Work Research, 5(1).

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