Why Do Individuals Engage with the Natural World? A Self-Determination Theory Perspective on the Effect of Nature Engagement and Well-Being

Elliott S. Lee (), Myles A. Maillet and Frederick M. E. Grouzet
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Elliott S. Lee: University of Victoria
Myles A. Maillet: University of Victoria
Frederick M. E. Grouzet: University of Victoria

Applied Research in Quality of Life, 2022, vol. 17, issue 3, No 15, 1532 pages

Abstract: Abstract There is an apparent contradiction between the general appreciation for nature, the benefits from engaging with it, and the declining rates of engagement with it. We propose that self-determination theory’s distinction between autonomous and controlled motivation can explain this contradiction. Using data from multiple samples (total N = 1755), we examined how the types of motivation—ranging from autonomous to controlled—can explain why people engage with nature, as well as the benefits of engaging with nature. As expected, relative autonomous motivation to engage with nature was related to engagement with nature. In addition, we found that satisfaction of psychological needs while in nature is positively associated with autonomous motivation and several types of well-being including flourishing, affect, life satisfaction, and eudaimonic well-being.

Keywords: Nature; Outdoor recreation; Motivation; Self-determination theory; Well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1007/s11482-021-09970-2

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