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. 2022 Mar 18;19(6):3622.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph19063622.

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

Martin Mau  1   2   3 , Maria L Vang  1   4 , Anna Mejldal  5 , Simon Høegmark  1 , Kirsten K Roessler  1
Affiliations

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

Martin Mau et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

Abstract

Self-perceived interpersonal problems are of central concern for researchers and individuals; they are at the basis of psychopathology and cause for subjective distress. In this study, we examine whether a group-based rehabilitation program in nature may reduce self-perceived interpersonal problems in a heterogeneous group of men declining participation in traditional rehabilitation offers. The intervention consisted of weekly meetings in nature, taking place over the course of nine weeks. Through a matched-control study including 114 participants in the intervention group and 39 in a treatment as usual group participating in traditional rehabilitation offers, we found that there was no statistically significant development in self-perceived interpersonal problems in the nature-based rehabilitation offer. Though promising with regards to a number of mental challenges, including relational challenges, nature-based group-rehabilitation may require a more elaborate and thoroughgoing intervention, including e.g., a therapist and more time to be an effective intervention against interpersonal problems. We conclude that perhaps due to the fundamental aspect of self-perceived interpersonal problems, exposure to nature, and being in a group of men in a similar situation for the duration that this intervention lasted, may not be enough to address such underlying perceptions of self.

Keywords: nature; rehabilitation; self-perceived interpersonal problems.

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Conflict of interest statement

Simon Høegmark has been a leading part of the development of the “Wildman Programme”. However, the Wildman Programme was, during this study, led by staff from the health centres in the Municipality of Svendborg and Faaborg-Midtfyn. Simon Høegmark and his companion have educated the staff in the methods of the Wildman Programme. Simon Høegmark received no financial benefit from the project.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Baseline score pattern for TAU and the Wildman Programme-group.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Post-intervention score pattern for TAU and the Wildman Programme-group.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Follow-up score pattern for TAU and the Wildman Programme-group.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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