Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2025

Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
Recognizing Patterns of Nature Contact Associated with Well-Being: An Exploratory Cluster Analysis
Adriano Bressane1,2, Joao Pedro da Cunha Pinto2, Líliam César de Castro Medeiros1
1Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos 12209-904, Brazil.
Urban nature contact significantly benefits mental well-being. Greater and more frequent engagement with nature correlates with reduced depression, anxiety, and stress, especially in developing countries.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Urban Health
- Public Mental Health
Background:
- Urbanization decreases human connection with nature, impacting mental well-being.
- Existing research often overlooks multifaceted nature contact dimensions and their mental health effects in developing nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify nature contact patterns linked to mental well-being in Brazilian metropolitan areas.
- To address the gap in understanding comprehensive nature contact dimensions and mental health in developing countries.
- To inform interventions for enhancing mental health through nature exposure.
Main Methods:
- Online survey of 2136 participants in Brazilian metropolitan areas.
- Assessed nature interaction patterns and mental health using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21).
- Employed hierarchical clustering and analysis of variance to identify distinct groups.
Main Results:
- Identified three distinct clusters with varied nature contact patterns and demographics.
- Higher frequency and duration of nature contact were associated with lower DASS-21 scores.
- Demonstrated a positive correlation between nature engagement and improved mental well-being.
Conclusions:
- Nature contact is beneficially associated with mental well-being in urban settings.
- Urban planning and public health policies should prioritize accessible natural spaces.
- Socioeconomic factors significantly influence access to nature and its mental health benefits.
Related Concept Videos
Dimensions of Health and Illness
Cluster Sampling Method
To choose a cluster sample, divide the population into clusters (groups) and then randomly select some of the clusters. All the members from these clusters are in the cluster sample. For example, if you randomly sample four departments from your...
Traits, Mood, and Subjective Wellbeing
Neuroticism and...
Naturalistic Observations
Sampling Plans
Random sampling is a method where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected for the sample. It involves selecting individuals randomly, often using random number generators or lottery-type methods. For example, when analyzing the properties of a...
Cause and Effect

