INHABIT: Interactions children and young people have with their natural and built environments
Background
Time spent outdoors has been shown to support good mental health and well-being in children and young people (CYP). However, CYP are spending less time outdoors than any other time in history. This coincides with the widespread use of social media and screen time, which have been associated with the growing concern about the mental health and well-being of CYP in Wales. CYPs mental health and well-being has also been negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with the Welsh Government acknowledging that CYP have been one of most adversely affected groups.
Aim
The aim of this project therefore is to understand how CYP engage with the built and natural environment in order to produce evidence that can be used by for example, policy makers and planners, to improve CYPs mental health and well-being.
Method
We have co-created two questionnaires, one for parents and one for CYP aged 12-16 years that are underpinned by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model of behaviour change. The COM-B provides a comprehensive framework for understanding behaviour, as well as designing behaviour change interventions.
Expected outcomes
As well as journal articles, a formal report and an accessible and bilingual infographic will be produced and disseminated to parents and CYP, government agencies, local authorities and other key stakeholders.
Funding
This project is funded by the Welsh Crucible.
