Psychometric evaluation of a 7-item Connectedness to Nature Scale in a Polish national adult sample
摘要
This study presents the Polish adaptation and validation of the Connectedness to Nature Scale (CNS), a measure of emotional connection with nature. Using quota sampling, we recruited 1038 participants matching the Polish population structure in terms of gender, age (range: 18–65), education, and the size of place of residence. Participants completed the CNS and related measures. A 7-item version presented a better fit than the original 14-item scale. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure and high internal consistency (α = 0.93, ωt = 0.94). Construct validity was established through positive correlations with Biophilia, Nature Relatedness, and dimensions of the AIMES connection to nature scale, and negative correlations with the materialism and human power scales. Individuals with higher CNS scores reported more pro-environmental behaviours, greater nature exposure, higher psychological well-being, and lower psychological distress. Test–retest reliability over four weeks was high. Finally, age (but not other demographic variables) was positively related to CNS scores. The Polish CNS-7 is a valid tool that can be used in research and practice to explore and promote the benefits of connecting with nature.