LAUSR

Abstract Is the need for nature relatedness a basic psychological need? Using Baumeister and Leary’s need criteria as comparators, we explored literature arcing across disciplines to find evidence that either supported or undermined our proposition that the human need for nature may be a fundamental psychological need. We found that while nature’s salubrious effects benefited humans across the lifespan, and largely transcended cultural boundaries, socioeconomic status, age, and state of health, the benefits of being in nature depended on choice, perception of safety, and absence of fear. Race, ethnicity, and gender tended to impede leisure in natural environments. In concluding that the need for nature relatedness is a basic psychological need, we discuss practical implications for leisure and recreation professionals, researchers, educators, architects, and city planners and proffer several practical interventions in several domains to benefit both the environment and humanity.