Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Liehr, Patricia

Abstract

Research has suggested positive effects of nature immersion––a state of being or an act of doing in natural space––for urban children who were otherwise at risk of emotional or behavioral problems. However, few studies have systematically investigated natural space qualities that predict child well-being at the clinical level. The purpose of this study was to increase understanding of natural space qualities as factors of urban child well-being. Explanatory mixed-methods were used. Quantitative data (N = 174) included a survey and two parental-reports of child wellbeing. Interviews provided qualitative data (N = 15). Data were analyzed using: Generalized Linear Model and Content Analysis. Both data streams were merged into a point of meta-inference that contributed to parental assessment of enhanced child well-being: 1) Parental valuing of nature connection (p < 0.001) as a soothing and safe resource and 2) Shorter and more frequent nature-child space-time immersion (p < 0.001). Integration of natural spaces into urban environments may be a costeffective and meaningful way to address urban child well-being.

Extent

201 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Dissertation (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2020.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00013436

Format

pdf

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