Plant-mediated Therapy Program Reduced Aggression and Improved Psychological Well-being in Elementary School Students

As modern society increasingly emphasizes individualism, concerns have grown that children who are disconnected from nature may experience declines in social skills, patience, empathy, and environmental awareness. This study examined the effects of a plant-mediated healing agricultural program (HAP) based on acceptance and commitment therapy on elementary school students. Psychological assessments measured internal developmental assets using the Self-concept Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Self-efficacy Scale, Respect for Life Scale, and Inclusion of Self in Nature Scale. Aggression reduction was assessed using the Aggression Scale, while psychological flexibility and acceptance of behavior were evaluated with the Acceptance and Commitment Questionnaire II. Additionally, untargeted metabolite profiling of saliva samples was conducted using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–Orbitrap–tandem mass spectrometry to analyze biochemical changes before and after the program. Participants showed significant improvements in internal developmental assets, including self-concept ( P < 0.05), self-esteem ( P < 0.01), self-efficacy ( P < 0.001), respect for life ( P < 0.01), and connection to nature ( P < 0.001). Aggression decreased significantly ( P < 0.001), with reductions in physical aggression ( P < 0.01), indirect aggression ( P < 0.001), negativity ( P < 0.01), and verbal aggression ( P < 0.001). Psychological flexibility and acceptance of behavior also increased significantly ( P < 0.001). Metabolite analysis identified 30 differential metabolites, including amino acids, dipeptides, carboxylic acids, and fatty acids. Pathway analysis revealed significant effects on the tricarboxylic acid cycle; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; and arginine biosynthesis. Among these, succinic acid showed a significant increase ( P < 0.01) after the program, emerging as a potential biomarker. These findings suggest that plant-mediated HAP induces metabolic changes, enhances psychological well-being, reduces aggression, and fosters emotional regulation and moral development in children. This nature-based intervention provides a promising alternative to traditional cognitive–behavioral approaches.