A relational model of perceived restorativeness: Intertwined effects of obligations, familiarity, security and parental supervision

Research on psychological restoration has mainly focused on how exposure to certain physical characteristics of the environment leads to restorative benefits. However, restorative processes are inherently relational, and more attention should be paid to qualities of human-environment transactions in restorative experiences. We developed and tested a model to describe the relation between the individual and the restorative environment, partially based on behaviour setting theory. The model employs the concepts of spatial and leadership interdependence to explain how familiarity, sense of security and company constrain perceived restorativeness of children (N = 362, M-age = 10, 50.1% boys) living in agricultural communities. A multiple mediator regression model showed that being involved in work-related activities in agricultural areas constrained children's perceived restorativeness. This effect was mediated by children's familiarity with agricultural areas, perceived security and their preference for not being under family surveillance. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.