Social perception of forest: A prophylactic space rather than a pathogenic space

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to discuss the social perceptions of forest environments within different social groups. What link can be made between forest and health in representations and value systems? The method used is typical of the social sciences with the analysis of a dense corpus of surveys, interviews and observation situations of people who frequent the forest. The idea that the forest is likely to contribute significantly to the physical and psychological well-being, to the health, even to heal a disease is very dominant. This environment is perceived as generally beneficial to health by most individuals. The perception of the risk of contracting a disease while walking through the forest is, on the contrary, very low. Even people already infected with Lyme disease continue to frequent the forest. The forest therefore appears as a prophylactic space rather than as a pathogenic space.