An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experience of a nature-based therapy intervention for children with long-term health conditions and associated psychological difficulties

Journal article

Bhatti, F., Leeuwerik, T., Savins, C. and Jackson, L. 2025. An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the experience of a nature-based therapy intervention for children with long-term health conditions and associated psychological difficulties. Journal of Health Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053251315380
AuthorsBhatti, F., Leeuwerik, T., Savins, C. and Jackson, L.
AbstractChildren and young people (CYP) with long-term health conditions (LTC) are at higher risk of developing mental health difficulties. Research suggests nature-based therapeutic interventions (NBTIs) may benefit CYP’s wellbeing, but less is known about the impact on CYP with LTC. This study’s objective was to explore how CYP with LTC and associated psychological difficulties experienced a NBTI and the impact on their wellbeing. Ten participants aged 10–13 attended a NBTI and took part in semi-structured interviews that explored how they made sense of their journey through the intervention, its impact on mental, physical wellbeing and sense of self. An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the interview data yielded four group experiential themes: ‘Overcoming Illness-Identity’, ‘Freedom to Choose’, ‘Sense of Connection’ and ‘A Mindful Presence’. Participants reported improved self-esteem, a deepened sense of belonging with peers and nature, and enhanced emotion regulation. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.
KeywordsChildren and young people; Long-term conditions (LTC); Mental health; Nature-based therapeutic interventions; Wellbeing
Year2025
JournalJournal of Health Psychology
PublisherSAGE Publications
ISSN1359-1053
1461-7277
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053251315380
Official URLhttps://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13591053251315380
Publication dates
Online07 Feb 2025
Publication process dates
Deposited19 Feb 2025
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Open
Output statusPublished
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