Factors influencing use of natural environments among immigrant women in Norway

Abstract

Abstract Background Due to a high burden of health challenges among immigrants in Norway, and the documented health benefits of interaction with nature, Norwegian authorities have prioritized the promotion of outdoor recreation among immigrants. Success in this part of public health work presupposes knowledge about factors influencing immigrants` use of nature, which to date is scarce. The present study explores these conditions in a group of immigrant women in Norway. Methods We performed individual interviews with 14 first generation immigrant women aged 27-70 years from Iran (2), Poland (2), Palestine, Afghanistan, Congo, Kenya, Thailand, Russia, Portugal, Latvia, Colombia and Bulgaria. Data were analyzed by qualitative content analysis. Results Multiple and interrelated factors at the individual, relational, cultural/religious, and structural level influenced the interviewees` use of nature. Individual-level conditions included the interviewees` attitudes towards nature and their perceived control over making use of nature. Previous experiences with nature and role model influences shaped attitudes, and knowledge about outdoor life opportunities and appropriate clothing/equipment, and perceived security shaped perceived control. A major relational level barrier was the lack of access to companions for nature outings. A barrier at the cultural/religious level included the discomfort of wearing hijab/all-covering dresses in nature. Main structural level premises for use of nature included available time and economy and access to natural sites. Conclusions This study highlights multiple conditions influencing immigrant women in Norway`s use of nature. Public health actors should be aware of and take into account this knowledge. Key messages Factors influencing immigrant women in Norway`s use of nature are to be found at different levels of influence. Strategies for increasing immigrants` use of nature should be based on existing knowledge about influencing factors.