How emerging adults perceive elements of nature as resources for wellbeing: a qualitative photo-elicitation study

Abstract Background: Given the growing concerns for emerging adult wellbeing, there is a need to better understand how this population group interpret, experience and seek to create wellbeing through nature. This paper aims to address this gap and provide unique insight on how emerging adults perceive and experience nature as a beneficial resource to their sense of wellbeing. Methods: This explorative qualitative study employed photo-elicitation interview method, where 18 emerging adults took photographs that represent their views on and experiences of wellbeing, and during the follow-up interviews discussed the meaning of their photographs. Without a priori mention, 14 participants identified contact with various elements of nature as important resources in supporting their wellbeing. It is the results of these 14 interviews that are discussed in depth in this paper with a focus on i) the elements of nature which emerging adults identify as important resources for their wellbeing, ii) experiences and the perceived pathways between these elements of nature and emerging adult wellbeing. Results: Thematic analysis revealed four distinct perceived pathways from nature to wellbeing, including symbiotic nurturing, social glue, positive outlook, and centre-ing. Four elements of nature facilitated these pathways: domesticated fauna and flora and wild fauna and surrounding nature. Conclusion: The findings help build understanding of how emerging adults perceive elements of nature as resources to their sense of wellbeing. The findings have important implications for the development of nature-oriented interventions to promote mental health and wellbeing among emerging adults. Keywords: Nature, emerging adults, well-being, photo-elicitation, pathways