Browsing by Author "Pekkala, Sannukka"

Immigration has increased in the capital region of Finland. It is predicted that the number of immigrants will continue to rise in the future. Nature and green areas are easy to be found in Finland, also in the capital region. Previous studies have shown that nature can enhance psychological, physiological and social well-being. However, we know little about the relation between nature, integration and immigrants' well-being. In addition, it remains unclear how immigrants relate to nature, and what nature means for people from different cultures. The purpose of this thesis was to describe, analyze and interpret the meaning of nature for eight immigrants living in the capital region. One of the goals of this thesis was to analyze how immigrants would see nature as a place for enhancing well-being, and that way, possibly support the process of integration. This study was carried out as a case study research in August-September 2016. The participants were eight adult immigrants living in the capital region. The participants' ages varied between 30 to 55 years and they had lived in Finland from 2 to 12 years. This thesis included theme interviews and three guided nature walks in the capital region. The data consisted of theme interviews done before the nature walks and feedback forms filled in the end of the last walk. The data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. According to the content analysis, the immigrants seemed to have mainly positive and everyday relation to nature. Immigrants also told that moving to Finland had had an impact on their relation to nature by waking it up or making it stronger. Nature close by was thought to be a meaningful place for rest and relaxation, and a significant source of day-to-day well-being. According to immigrants, moving in and learning about nature could have a positive impact for the integration process by supporting social and cultural integration, enhancing well-being, and introducing new places. Participants also brought up that both cultural and practical topics related to nature could be more significant part of the integration education.