Peak experiences in nature: implications for psychological well-being and environmental behaviour

Abstract

The aim of the research presented here was to investigate the relevance of ecopsychology principles for contemporary counselling psychology; specifically, whether peak experiences in nature may lead to greater psychological well-being and more environmental behaviours. Theory and research from a variety of different fields that informed a better understanding of the associations and outcomes of peak experiences in nature were carefully considered. The method includes a quantitative survey design with 305 participants who responded to measures of contact with nature, mystical experiences in natural and human-built environments, psychological well-being, and environmental behaviour. Twenty semi-structured interviews were also completed, where participants were asked about the qualities and outcomes of their significant experiences in natural and human-built settings. Quantitative data analysis revealed significant relationships between mystical experiences in nature, psychological well-being, and environmental behaviour, with differences in the strength of these relationships according to gender and religious affiliation. Qualitative analysis suggested that spiritual and peak experiences in nature may lead to long-term psychological well-being as a consequence of changes in self and personality, the formation of vivid memories that could be drawn upon in the present, and increased contact with nature. Interview participants also discussed a desire to protect and care for environments that were able to elicit significant affective experiences. Implications for contemporary ecopsychology, counselling psychology, and urban design are discussed.