Nature connectedness alters the structure of the dehumanization-mental symptoms network: A comparative cross-sectional network analysis

Abstract

Background

Dehumanization is often closely linked to mental health issues, connection with nature has the potential to buffer the impact of dehumanization and enhance psychological well-being. This study aims to explore how nature connectedness differs in its influence on the network structure between dehumanization and mental symptoms.

Methods

A network structure model was constructed of dehumanization and mental symptoms based on a sample of 5914. Nature connectedness, dehumanization, anxiety, and depressive symptoms were measured by the Inclusion of Nature in Self (INS) scale, the Dehumanization Assessment scale (DAS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-item scale (GAD-2), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2).

Results

In the group with lower nature connectedness, uncontrollable worry emerged as the most critical symptom, while in the group with higher nature connectedness, superficiality was the most prominent. Anhedonia served as a bridging symptom in the low nature connectedness group, and superficiality in other groups. Overall, individuals with lower nature connectedness exhibited a stronger association between dehumanization and mental symptoms, while higher nature connectedness was associated with stronger internal linkages among dehumanization indicators and tighter internal correlations among mental symptom indicators.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that nature connectedness may alleviate the adverse effects of dehumanization on mental symptoms, acting as a buffering mechanism. This study provides a novel perspective on natural interventions for mental symptoms, shedding light on the potential pathways through which nature connectedness can promote psychological well-being.