Review of the literature supports a positive link between childhood time in nature and pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors but calls for more related researchFindings from numerous studies suggest that time in nature during childhood leads to deeper appreciation of connectedness to nature and greater pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors (PEAB). The aim of this narrative review of the literature was to examine the related evidence and to analyze some of the concepts and theories framing the studies. It also considered how demographic and cultural contexts might influence the relationship between childhood nature experiences and adult PEAB.
A total of 67 articles published from January 1980 through June 2021 were included in this review. The studies represented multiple disciplines, geographic regions, and study populations. Most of the studies, however, were conducted in Western countries.
The literature on nature exposure and PEAB over the last four decades has emphasized defining and measuring environmental values. The three types of values most often considered are intrinsic (inherent to nature), instrumental (related to human use and preferences), and relational (derived from relationships between humans and the rest of nature). Instrumental and relational values are sometimes referred to as “anthropocentric” and can be “anti-environmental” attitudes. Intrinsic values, on the other hand, are sometimes referred to as “biocentric” and reflect “pro-environmental” attitudes. Other values influencing PEAB include egoistic (self-centered) and altruistic (concerned for others). Of the different values considered, altruistic and biospheric values are of particular importance in understanding and promoting PEAB. Individual studies, however, indicate that expressed pro-environmental values and attitudes do not always lead to pro-environmental behaviors.
Individual studies in this review found that historical, cultural, and racial factors can influence the development of nature-related attitudes, values, and behaviors. The conditions of the nature exposure can also impact PEAB outcomes. The overall conclusion of the review, however, indicates that time in nature “regardless of the quality of environmental conditions, leads to increased perceived values ascribed to nature, which is associated with PEAB.” Gaps in the research which need to be addressed in future research include a lack of longitudinal and mechanistic studies and inconsistencies in the assessment of nature experience and PEAB. This review calls for more research on the origins and drivers of PEAB so that initiatives promoting these attitudes and behaviors can be appropriately designed and executed.
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