RESEARCH

Planting Seeds: A Systematic Review of Nature-Based Therapies with Adolescents and Emerging Adults, with Particular Focus on Latinx Populations

This systematic review found that nature-based therapies are effective in improving well-being and reducing behavioral issues among adolescents and young adults, though the impact on mood and anxiety was less consistent. The study highlighted a significant gap in research regarding the effectiveness of these therapies for diverse populations, particularly Latinx youth, emphasizing the need for more inclusive studies to better serve these groups.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Children/Youth, Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

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

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Behavioral Therapy

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Environmental Education, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Paid

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Summary

This review explores the use of nature-based therapies (NBTs) for improving mental health among adolescents and young adults, with a focus on Latinx populations. NBTs involve activities that take place in natural settings or incorporate elements of nature, such as wilderness therapy, outdoor education, horticulture, and exposure to green spaces. The study aimed to summarize existing research on these therapies and their effectiveness in enhancing well-being, social skills, and reducing behavioral issues. However, it found that much of the research lacks diversity in terms of cultural, demographic, and socioeconomic factors, particularly concerning Latinx participants.

The study analyzed 80 research papers published between 1990 and 2021, finding that NBTs generally improve well-being and social skills while reducing behavioral problems and substance use. However, the impact on mood and anxiety symptoms was less consistently reported. Despite the benefits of NBTs, the research highlighted a significant gap in understanding how these therapies affect diverse populations, especially Latinx youth. The study emphasizes the need for more inclusive research to better serve growing demographic groups like the Latinx community.

Link

Ramirez, R. (2022, March). Planting Seeds: A Systematic Review of Nature-Based Therapies with Adolescents and Emerging Adults, with Particular Focus on Latinx Populations. Proquest.com.

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