Space for being, developing and self-regulating: Outdoor pathways to adolescent wellbeing

Urbanisation, digitalisation and emerging technologies are reshaping young people's relationship with the outdoor environment. We investigate how everyday outdoor experiences and spaces support adolescent wellbeing, understood as both feeling good and functioning well. Adolescents, at a pivotal stage in life, are particularly sensitive to environmental factors that influence their wellbeing. We conducted semi-structured interviews with adolescents aged 12-15 in southern Sweden (n = 14), followed by photo interviews (n = 10). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. We identified six overlapping outdoor pathways to wellbeing: being with others completely; being in motion; being in sensory experiences; developing independence; developing mastery and capacities; and self-regulating emotions and thoughts. These pathways show how everyday outdoor spaces-gardens, schoolyards, playgrounds, green spaces and neighbourhoods-can support autonomy as adolescents decide how, where and with whom they spend their time. While there are parallels with adult experiences, the pathways underscore adolescents' stronger reliance on accessible outdoor spaces to meet daily wellbeing needs. Public investments in inclusive, nearby and engaging outdoor environments may be a particularly promising strategy for promoting adolescent wellbeing, as multiple wellbeing pathways can be activated within the same space or activity.