Can Rehabilitation in Nature Improve Self-Perceived Interpersonal Problems? A Matched-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Environmental Psychology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Self-perceived interpersonal problems are a key factor in psychopathology and distress.
• Traditional rehabilitation programs are not always effective or appealing to all individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a nature-based group rehabilitation program in reducing self-perceived interpersonal problems.
• To assess the effectiveness of this intervention for men declining traditional rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A matched-control study design was employed.
• The intervention group (114 men) participated in weekly nine-week nature-based meetings.
• The control group (39 men) received traditional treatment as usual.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant reduction in self-perceived interpersonal problems was observed in the nature-based rehabilitation group.
• The intervention showed potential for other mental health challenges but not specifically interpersonal issues.

Conclusions:

• The nine-week nature-based group intervention was insufficient to address fundamental self-perceived interpersonal problems.
• Future nature-based interventions may require greater intensity, therapist involvement, and longer duration to be effective.