Concepts and theories.

Abstract

Abstract This book chapter discusses a number of concepts and theories closely identified with human health and natural environments. The chapter is divided into five sections: (i) genetic theories; (ii) other evolutionary grounded theories; (iii) psychological theories; (iv) restoration and restorative environments; and (v) intentionally designed experiences (IDEs). Genetic theories include naturalistic intelligence, the biophilia hypothesis, and indigenous consciousness. In the psychological theories section, identity and the natural environment, psychologically deep and extraordinary experiences, flow, the peak experience, and transcendent experiences are examined. The restoration and restorative environments section looks at psycho-evolutionary theory (PET) and attention restoration theory (ART). The chapter concludes with a discussion regarding ways to strengthen the connection between natural environments and health. The concept of IDEs is introduced, which attempts to combine some of the extant theories such as PET with how specifically designed programs can increase the impact that natural environments can have on health-related issues such as stress or anxiety.