Interpersonal Relationships As A Metaphor For Human-Nature Relationships

Abstract

This article draws on interpersonal relationships literature to enable discussion of human to nature relationships. A 'Constructs of Relationship' model is proposed. The model suggests five constructs of a relationship: concern, skills, interaction, trust, and knowing. These five constructs have shown to be important in shaping interpersonal relationships and are used here to draw implications for the practice of outdoor education in developing human to nature relationships. In so doing the article suggests a language and framework for considering how human-nature relationships may be initiated and sustained.; ;