Connection with Nature and Adolescents’ Life Satisfaction: The Role of Cognitive Reappraisal and Affect

Drawing upon the perspective of eco-existential positive psychology, this research investigates the association between adolescents’ connection with nature and their life satisfaction, while also examining the mediating role of cognitive reappraisal and affect. The respondents were 667 Chinese adolescents aged 13–17 years who accomplished the following questionnaires: Extended Inclusion of Nature in Self, Cognitive Reappraisal, Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, and Satisfaction with Life Scale. The results reveal that adolescents’ connection with nature, mediated by positive affect and cognitive reappraisal-positive affect, is positively associated with life satisfaction. In addition, negative affect is negatively associated with life satisfaction, and cognitive reappraisal- negative affect also plays a mediating role between adolescents’ CN and negative affect. The research expands the theory of eco-existential positive psychology and demonstrates that establishing a connection with nature enhances adolescents’ sense of existential well-being (life satisfaction). It also shows how adolescents can enhance their life satisfaction by connecting with nature, engaging in cognitive reappraisal, and maintaining a positive affect.