Overview
Participation in citizen science has been shown to bring not only social benefits of collecting scientific data, but also well-being benefits to individual participants such as psychological fulfillment, self-efficacy, and social connection. Not just viewing nature, but the active action of "participating with a role" and "contributing" leads to deeper happiness.Theoretical Background
PERMA Model and Citizen Science
Citizen science contributes fully to the five elements of happiness "PERMA" proposed by Seligman, founder of positive psychology.- P (Positive Emotion): The fun of nature observation, the joy of discovery.
- E (Engagement): Immersion, flow experience (searching enthusiastically).
- R (Relationships): Interaction with companions who share the same hobby.
- M (Meaning): The significance of "being useful to science and environmental conservation."
- A (Accomplishment): The sense of achievement of finding a rare species or successfully identifying one.
Detailed Explanation
1. Deepening Nature Connectedness
Through projects, participants observe nature more deeply and significantly improve their attachment and sense of unity with nature (Nature Connectedness). This is an indicator strongly correlated with individual happiness (see separate article).2. Reducing Social Isolation
Citizen science in the UK is attracting attention as part of "social prescribing." Many cases have been reported where retired elderly and people feeling lonely participate in community monitoring activities, gain companions with common purposes, and improve social isolation.3. Flow Experience and Mindfulness
When walking through a forest searching for creatures, people concentrate intensely on "here and now." Worries and ruminating thoughts stop, and time passes quickly. This is a psychological flow state, a mental state that brings high happiness.Critical Examination
Community Exclusivity
Some specialized observation circles can be harsh to beginners (knowledge gatekeeping) or closed, and in some cases become stressful for participants (gatekeeping problem). In platforms like IKIMON, open and welcoming cultural design (community guidelines) that welcomes beginners is essential.What IKIMON Can Do
IKIMON is the best platform for "contributing while having fun."- Granting Meaning: By telling users "your posts become proof of Nature Positive," we sublimate a mere hobby into "social contribution activity."
- Designing Accomplishment: Game-like elements like badge functions, leveling up, and collection completion rates create a sense of achievement.
- Building Relationships: Rather than just "likes," we promote interactions that praise knowledge and contribution like "Nice identification!"
References
- Dean, A. J., et al. (2018). Beyond data: A systematic review of the wellbeing benefits of citizen science.
- Pocock, M. J. O., et al. (2019). The human value of citizen science.