The Impact of Nature-Based Interventions on Differentiation of Self: A Mixed-Methods Study

The Impact of Nature-Based Interventions on Differentiation of Self: A Mixed-Methods Study

Principal Investigator:
Anna Hallows

1. Introduction

Differentiation of Self (DoS), a concept derived from Bowen Family Systems Theory, refers to an individual’s ability to maintain a strong sense of self while managing emotional connections with others. Higher levels of DoS are associated with improved emotional regulation, stress resilience, and healthier interpersonal relationships.

Nature-Based Interventions (NBIs) — including exposure to green and blue spaces, guided forest therapy, and horticultural activities — have demonstrated benefits for mental health, stress reduction, and emotional regulation. However, research exploring the specific effects of NBIs on DoS is sparse. This study aims to fill this gap, exploring whether participation in NBIs can enhance self-differentiation and the underlying mechanisms driving this effect.

2. Research Problem

Modern life, characterized by high stress and relational complexity, has contributed to emotional dysregulation and reduced self-differentiation in many individuals. While NBIs have shown promise in improving psychological well-being, their role in fostering DoS remains understudied. Understanding this relationship could inform interventions aimed at strengthening self-regulation, emotional resilience, and relational functioning.

3. Research Objectives

1. Examine the effect of structured NBIs on participants’ differentiation of self.

2. Explore participants’ subjective experiences of self and relational change after NBIs.

3. Identify potential mechanisms (e.g., stress reduction, mindfulness, connectedness to nature) that mediate the relationship between NBIs and DoS.

4. Research Questions

1. Does participation in NBIs significantly increase differentiation of self among adults?

2. How do participants describe changes in emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships after NBIs?

3. What psychological or environmental mechanisms mediate the relationship between NBIs and DoS?

5. Hypotheses

• H1: Participants engaging in NBIs will show statistically significant improvements in DoS scores compared to a control group.

• H2: NBIs will enhance emotional regulation and decrease anxiety and stress levels, mediating improvements in DoS.

• H3: Participants will report heightened self-awareness and relational clarity as qualitative outcomes of NBI participation.

6. Methodology

6.1 Design

A mixed-methods, quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-intervention measures, complemented by qualitative interviews.

6.2 Participants

• Sample size: 80 adults, aged 18–65

• Inclusion criteria: Adults with moderate stress or interpersonal difficulties; willing to participate in outdoor interventions

• Exclusion criteria: Severe psychiatric conditions, mobility limitations preventing participation

6.3 Intervention

• Nature-Based Intervention program: 8 weekly sessions (90 minutes each) including guided nature walks, mindfulness exercises in nature, and reflective journaling.

• Control group: Waitlist or indoor wellness activities unrelated to nature.

6.4 Measures

• Quantitative:

  • Differentiation of Self Inventory-Revised (DSI-R)

  • Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)

  • State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)

• Qualitative:

  • Semi-structured interviews exploring experiences of self, relational awareness, and emotional regulation

6.5 Data Collection

• Baseline (pre-intervention) and post-intervention surveys

• 4-week follow-up to assess sustained effects

• Audio-recorded interviews transcribed for thematic analysis

6.6 Data Analysis

• Quantitative: Paired t-tests, ANOVA, and mediation analysis

• Qualitative: Thematic analysis using NVivo or similar software to identify recurring themes

7. Ethical Considerations

• Informed consent obtained from all participants

• Confidentiality maintained via anonymized coding

• Participants can withdraw at any time without penalty

• Approval from Institutional Review Board (IRB) required

8. Significance of the Study

This study bridges the gap between environmental psychology and family systems theory by investigating NBIs as a novel approach to enhancing DoS. Findings may inform mental health interventions, wellness programs, and public health initiatives, highlighting the therapeutic potential of nature in fostering emotional and relational resilience.

9. Potential Limitations

• Self-selection bias of participants motivated to engage with nature

• Seasonal/weather limitations impacting outdoor sessions

• Generalizability may be limited to adults without severe psychiatric conditions

10. Timeline

PhaseDurationActivitiesPreparation1 monthRecruitment, IRB approval, training facilitatorsIntervention2 months8 weekly NBI sessionsData Collection2 monthsPre/post surveys, interviewsData Analysis1 monthQuantitative and qualitative analysisDissemination1 monthWriting reports, conference submissions

11. Expected Outcomes

• Empirical evidence supporting NBIs as a tool to improve DoS

• Insights into the mechanisms of change (stress reduction, mindfulness, connection to nature)

• Qualitative narratives highlighting personal and relational growth

12. References (APA 7th Edition)

• Bowen, M. (1978). Family therapy in clinical practice. Jason Aronson.

• Hartig, T., Mitchell, R., de Vries, S., & Frumkin, H. (2014). Nature and health. Annual Review of Public Health, 35(1), 207–228.

• Kemeny, M. E., & Schedlowski, M. (2007). Understanding the interaction between psychosocial stress and immune-related diseases. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 76(2), 1–10.

• Lee, J., & Maheswaran, R. (2011). The health benefits of urban green spaces: A review of the evidence. Journal of Public Health, 33(2), 212–222.

• Skowron, E. A., & Schmitt, T. A. (2003). Assessing relational and individual differentiation: Development and validation of the Differentiation of Self Inventory. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 50(2), 265–278.