Horticulture, well-being, and mental health: From intuitions to evidence

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Can horticulture contribute significantly to human well-being and mental health? Increasing evidence suggests it can. These findings come from scientific studies with diverse populations, including residents of poor inner city neighborhoods, ecological restoration volunteers, and children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Moreover, the findings come from studies of diverse outcomes, including lower rates of violent and property crime, lower incidence of aggression, greater ability to cope with poverty, better life functioning, greater life satisfaction, reduced attention deficit symptoms, greater strength of community, and others. This presentation gives an overview of the evidence for horticultural contributions to human mental health and well-being, with a particular focus on its implications for children, the poor, and other vulnerable populations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationXXVI International Horticultural Congress
Subtitle of host publicationExpanding Roles for Horticulture inmproving Human Well-Being and Life Quality
PublisherInternational Society for Horticultural Science
Pages27-34
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9789066057272
DOIs
StatePublished - 2004

Publication series

NameActa Horticulturae
Volume639
ISSN (Print)0567-7572

Keywords

  • Human issues in horticulture
  • Psychological aspects of horticulture
  • Research methods
  • Research review
  • Urban horticulture

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Horticulture

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