Youth perceptions of nature: a case study of “Matric EnWild” nature immersion camp

A study was conducted to understand youth perceptions of nature. Such perceptions determine youth attitudes and behaviours towards nature. Making sense of these attitudes and behaviours towards nature, there can be valuable insights generated towards the implications that such perceptions may have for societal development in a country. 20 Youth participants were selected for the study. All participants selected were part of a diversely represented nature immersion programme in South Africa. The programme purposely keeps a balance of gender (binary), class and race for those that attend every year. Data was gathered from students using qualitative interview and questionnaire survey. This data was then analysed based on existing theory and literature. The overall insights that emerged from the study were that literature shows that there are five recurring influential social factors that influence youth perception of nature, Two theories; Human Exceptionalism Paradigm and New Ecological Paradigm, can be used to better understand what youth attitudes and behaviours towards nature (that stems from their perception) means to eco-social development of a country. Theory was also used to explain that there is indeed a greater understanding of the importance of nature amongst South African youth, and the need for its protection for survival. This is very crucial for South Africa’s development and eco-political landscape as the youth are the future of a country and their practices in future will determine the direction of society