Individual differences in the physiological effects of forest therapy based on Type A and Type B behavior patterns

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Human Physiology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Natural environments offer physiological relaxation benefits.
• Individual differences in forest therapy effects are known, but assessment methods are lacking.
• This study investigates Type A and Type B behavior patterns' role in physiological responses to forests.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how Type A and Type B behavior patterns influence physiological responses to forest environments.
• To establish clearer assessment methods for individual differences in forest therapy effects.

Main Methods:

• Physiological experiments conducted in 44 forest and urban settings.
• 485 male university students participated, randomly assigned to observe landscapes for 15 minutes.
• Pulse rates and blood pressures were measured; Type A/B behavior patterns identified using a questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Type B individuals exhibited significantly lower pulse rates after forest exposure compared to urban settings.
• Type A individuals showed no significant difference in pulse rate between forest and urban environments.
• Lower pulse rates and diastolic blood pressure changes were observed in low-scoring Type B individuals.

Conclusions:

• Type A and Type B behavior patterns can explain individual differences in physiological responses to forest environments.
• Forest therapy's relaxation effects are modulated by personality traits.
• This research contributes to understanding personalized nature-based interventions.