The effect of nature-based experiences on children’s adjustment to the hospital: A comparative study

Numerous research projects conducted in various settings have supported the thesis that nature experiences lead to increased environmental awareness and aid in the development of self-concept, self-confidence, and levels of achievement in children. This study was designed to examine the effectiveness of nature-based activities as a method of reducing the fear and anxiety levels of children participating in a hospital child-life program. An experimental group of thirty hospitalized children participated in nature experiences designed for hospital playroom and in-room use. A control group of forty children participated only in regular child-life activities. The anxiety level of the children, ages four to seventeen, was evaluated by three instruments: A thirteen-item, five-point Fear Thermometers Test, a sixty-four-item Behavior Observation Checklist, and a four-item Anxiety Rating Scale. The results suggest that the experiential nature activities did contribute to a comprehensive approach to therapy and added a positive dimension to the child-life program. However, no significant differences in anxiety levels were found between the experimental group of children and the control group.