RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy Program for Mental Health of Prisoners: Case Report

Horticultural therapy enhances psychological well-being in prisoners, reducing depression and improving self-esteem and life satisfaction through structured gardening activities.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Corrections/Justice-Involved

Setting or Context: Jails/Prisons

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Self-Efficacy, Improved Quality of Life

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Growing Plants from Seed, Environmental Education

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

A 12-session horticultural therapy (HT) program was implemented in a South Korean correctional institution, engaging five male prisoners in plant cultivation and gardening activities. The program, based on the Good Lives Model (GLM), aimed to enhance emotional stability, self-reflection, and rehabilitation readiness. Participants showed reduced depression (-2.6 points), increased self-esteem (+1.2), and improved life satisfaction (+4.0) after completing the program.

Prisoners reported feeling more peaceful, rejuvenated, and self-aware, linking their own life cycles to plant growth. The study highlights HT as a valuable tool for prisoner rehabilitation, fostering positive emotional changes and reducing recidivism risk. Future research is needed to validate findings with larger sample sizes and explore long-term effects

Link

Lee, A.Y., Kim, S.Y., Kwon, H.J., & Park, S.A. (2021). Horticultural therapy program for mental health of prisoners: Case report. Integr Med Res., 10(2), 100495.

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