Articles
The theoretical model and universal definition of horticultural therapy
Article number
1121_12
Pages
79 – 88
Language
English
Abstract
Horticultural therapy (HT) has experienced tremendous growth after establishing an academic framework.
However, it is yet to be recognized as a professional treatment method by patients and medical circles.
Part of the issue is derived from horticultural experts who have not received professional training conducting HT program and the mixing HT with TH (therapeutic horticulture), making it necessary to provide clear definitions of HT concepts and present a scientific and systematic HT model.
To this end, this paper provides a new integrative model and definitions including the three elements of HT such as clinically trained professional, diagnosed client in treatment, HT activities with living plants, the three medical/scientific elements such as measurable goal, intended program, scientific assessment, and the three therapeutic mechanisms including biophilia, mutual dynamics, and allostasis, as well as four types of therapeutic benefits such as physical, social, psycho-emotional and cognitive benefits.
The proposed theoretical model and HT definition are expected to contribute to HT being accepted as a complementary medicine, and internationally used HT standard by setting clear distinctions between the profession of HT and TH.
However, it is yet to be recognized as a professional treatment method by patients and medical circles.
Part of the issue is derived from horticultural experts who have not received professional training conducting HT program and the mixing HT with TH (therapeutic horticulture), making it necessary to provide clear definitions of HT concepts and present a scientific and systematic HT model.
To this end, this paper provides a new integrative model and definitions including the three elements of HT such as clinically trained professional, diagnosed client in treatment, HT activities with living plants, the three medical/scientific elements such as measurable goal, intended program, scientific assessment, and the three therapeutic mechanisms including biophilia, mutual dynamics, and allostasis, as well as four types of therapeutic benefits such as physical, social, psycho-emotional and cognitive benefits.
The proposed theoretical model and HT definition are expected to contribute to HT being accepted as a complementary medicine, and internationally used HT standard by setting clear distinctions between the profession of HT and TH.
Authors
K.C. Son, S.J. Jung, A.Y. Lee, S.A. Park
Keywords
therapeutic horticulture, therapeutic mechanisms, medical elements, biophilia, allostasis
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