The Plymouth Student Scientist
Document Type
Psychology Article
Abstract
To date research has found a positive effect of blue spaces on adults’ wellbeing. However, it remains to be seen whether these findings are also true for children. The present study aims to address this gap in the literature. The researchers observed children’s behaviour at the National Marine Aquarium across two weeks, including one where the Big Draw event was taking place. In line with restorative theories of natural environments (Kaplan, 1995, Ulrich, 1983), the current research found the exhibit had a calming effect on behaviour and increased levels of happiness across both weeks. During the Big Draw week children stayed longer and were calmer. The results help to substantiate the current research on the restorative potential of natural environments.
Publication Date
2012-12-01
Publication Title
The Plymouth Student Scientist
Volume
5
Issue
2
First Page
165
Last Page
181
ISSN
1754-2383
Deposit Date
2019-05-15
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Cocker, Hazel
(2012)
"The positive effects of aquarium visits on children's behaviour: A behavioural observation,"
The Plymouth Student Scientist: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 21.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24382/v20m-vc79
Available at:
https://pearl.plymouth.ac.uk/tpss/vol5/iss2/21
Included in
Engineering Commons, Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons, Psychiatry and Psychology Commons
