Getting Down to the Facts: Nature Deficit Disorder and Wilderness Literature

The first topic of this blog is how outdoor skills and the wilderness can be a helpful catalysts for any type of skills. As mentioned in the previous post, Richard Louv coined the term "Nature Deficit Disorder". In his book Last Child in the Woods, "he argues that all of us, especially children, are spending more time indoors, which makes us feel alienated from nature and perhaps more vulnerable to negative moods or reduced attention span."  "Nature Deficit Disorder" is not a recognized medical term, but there is plenty of support for the possible concerns and symptoms of this issue.

So now with information about the benefits and research done on how the environment can help with personal betterment,  The other topic of wilderness inspired works are mostly contained to modern day travel and hiking biographies and the works of pioneer transcendentalists. Early transcendentalists like Henry David Thoreau wrote much of his influential writings at Walden Pond. Thoreau's philosophy linked with his philosophical ideas explored early environmental issues and questions that people faced.

These writings can be used for more than learning about writing styles, but can also inform readers about the importance and nuances of the environment over time. Modern day writings like Into The Wild, explores the reckless yet wildness inspired trip by Chris McCandless. Cheryl Strayed's Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail journey on the Pacific Crest Trail allow readers to feel more connected to the environment and influence readers interest in their personal interests with the environment.  These modern writings showcase the early start to the very popular genre of "explorer" or "wilderness literature". These pieces can be used to evoke a sense of needing a connection to the environment and appreciation for the lessons our environments can teach us. 

More blogs will go into more details of specific case studies or relevant literature. Stay tuned for my next post which will go over my opinion and personal stories in relation to these topics! 

Happy Trails!

Daisy