RESEARCH

Exploring the Use of Therapeutic Horticulture to Enhance the Psychological Well-Being of Female Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

This study investigated the impact of horticultural therapy on the psychological well-being of female sexual assualt survivors. The program included activities like growing vegetables, working with sensory plants, and creating crafts, and fostering a positive connection with nature.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Setting or Context: Community Gardens, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Physical Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Counselling

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

[print-me target=".elementor-location-single" do_not_print=".other-activities, .print-btn, #tag-container" title="Print Form" role="button"/]

Summary

Watkins et al. investigated the effectiveness of a 10-week therapeutic horticulture program in enhancing the psychological well-being of 26 female child survivors of sexual abuse in the Philippines. The research primarily used a qualitative approach, gathering data through written questionnaires administered mid-way and at the end of the program, where participants described their experiences. Complementing this, quantitative data was collected using the Brief Inventory of Thriving (BIT) and the Flourishing Scale (FS) at the beginning and end of the program to assess overall psychological well-being.

The therapeutic horticulture program included activities designed to build self-confidence, encourage positive socialization, and foster a connection with nature. Activities included growing pechay (bok choy), working with sensory plants, using aloe vera and cucumber for self-care, creating flower box crafts, healing teas, composting, and companion planting. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed that participants valued learning about horticulture, cultivated positive social relationships, heightened their engagement with nature, and fostered positive psychological change. Paired t-tests on the BIT and FS scores indicated a statistically significant increase in the subject’s well-being after the program’s implementation.

Link

Watkins, M.S., Teh, L.A., & Fernandez, K.T.G. (2019). Exploring the use of therapeutic horticulture to enhance the psychological well-being of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(1).

Other Recommended Research

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.