Simulated nature views and stress reduction in correctional officers

¶ … Simulated Nature View on Cognitive and Psycho-Physiological Responses of Correctional Officers in a Jail Intake Area

Author(s) Name: Jay Farbstein, Melissa Farling, & Richard Wener

This research project tested how views of nature, that are introduced in the jail booking area, would be expected to result in a measurable reduction in levels of stress experienced by inmates and staff, compared to the situation prior to the intervention, the predicted outcome. The second hypothesis was to prove that large-scale photomural of a natural outlook could be anticipated to reduce staff stress in a jail booking area. The main objective of the study was to come up with valid information on practicable way for introducing natural analysis in an accessible interior area and adopt appropriate methods for measuring stress before and after the introduction.

Research Design

The research was designed in a model known as pre-post, quasi-experimental, within-subjects

One intervention in the form of photo presentation at the MADF in Sonoma

All staff underwent a pre-test before the installation of the murals

The staff underwent similar test after installation of the murals

Background and Study Questions

Main conceptual models; biophilia stress and attention restoration models

Biophilia is based on progress and holds a postulation that there exists a survival benefit granted from direct contact with nature. Progressive survival abilities in the natural works towards development of non-threatening images of nature hence creating calm and restoration of stress

Psychological and psycho-physiological effects are direct, instant, and not influenced by cognition. Exposure to nature is a significant aspect of recovery from stress. This also applies to decreased blood pressure, limited anxiety, and minimal pain medication.

Attention restoration model bases it argument on cognitive illustration. The model focuses on scenarios, psychological activities, and cases that are unpleasant and demands attentiveness. Scenarios that provide voluntary attention are deemed restorative as they enhance recovery from psychological weariness due to exposure. The nature activities are voluntary and captivating in most cases

Access to natural exposure leads to minimum stress levels, increased satisfaction and fewer illness. Aggressive behavior is also reduced through exposure to views of nature. Both models explain relationship between nature and violent behavior. Stress in most cases leads to anger, violence, and outbursts due to lack of impulse control.

Art plays an important role in stress and anger management. Constructive effects of nature in relation to behavior may also be realized in prison context. Inmates enjoy the view of nature as this distracts them from current issues and psychologically are in another world. This contributes towards reduction of the blood pressure, reduced disorders and minimum cases of violence in jails. Positive effects in relation to views of nature subscribes to stimulation of photographs as well as natural landscapes.

Key Findings

The data indicated prove of the hypothesized effects. The survey conducted on the officers showed little change in alleged stress and moods. This was accompanied by optimistic change on cognitive and psycho-physiological variables.

Murals had encouraging influence on the inmate reactions which resulted into low aggressive levels, minimal tension, and positive effects realized by officers. Positive effects can be derived from simple modifications for example murals in this experiment.

Limitation

The research was a single intervention hence small representative percentage. This limited the use of useful analytical tools or metrics

The effects of murals were only studied in relation to officers on duty.

Commentary

The cost of organizing and executing this experiment was very expensive as costly materials like monitors and training of the staff in helping in the research.

The experiment failed to conduct the qualitative bit of the experiment through questionnaire.

The experiment is a break through into the study of effects of natural views to stress reduction. Future researchers to enhance their own experiments can use this information.

Adapted From

Author(s) Name: Jay Farbstein, PhD, FAIA, Melissa Farling, AIA LEED AP & Richard Wener, PhD, Upali Nanda, PhD National Institute of Corrections,

Article Title: Effects of a Simulated Nature View on Cognitive and Psycho-physiological Responses of Correctional Officers in a Jail Intake Area

Publisher: Not Applicable

Publication: Not Applicable

Publication Type: Not Applicable

Funder/Sponsor: National Institute of Correction

Date of Publication: Not Applicable

Volume: Not Applicable

Issue: 1

Pages: 1-27