PSYC FPX 1000 Assessment 3 Applied Research in Psychology PSYC FPX 1000 Introduction to Psychology

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Applied Research in Psychology

It is well-known that the presentation of a particular space significantly influences the atmosphere of that area. Consider a visit to a massage therapist’s office; the colors, lighting, music, and even the scent are all carefully curated to help clients feel relaxed and at ease. Similar strategies can be implemented in office environments to help employees refresh their mindset and enhance their productivity.

Overview

In the late 1980s, Stephan and Rachel Kaplan developed a theory in response to the increasing prevalence of technology and the growing amount of time people spent indoors. They expressed concerns about the potential negative effects of reduced outdoor exposure and connection with nature. This led to the development of attention restoration theory, which posits that “exposure to nature is not only enjoyable but can also help us improve our focus and ability to concentrate” (Ackerman, 2021). Environments characterized by fluorescent lighting and small, boxy cubicles can be demotivating and depressing. By applying Kaplan’s attention restoration theory to office redesign, employers can help employees rejuvenate their mental state and refocus on their work. Incorporating natural lighting and real plants into office spaces can evoke a sense of being outdoors. Additionally, buildings with ample windows that overlook mountains or gardens can facilitate a mental reset.

Foundational Theory

Attention restoration theory examines the interactions individuals have with their environmental surroundings. “One important interaction between individual and environment is the restoration of our attention, our energy, and ourselves by experiencing or viewing nature” (Clay, 2001). Employers aiming to engage and motivate their employees can achieve this by making a few simple changes to their office spaces, such as adding live plants, using earth-tone colors, and allowing natural light to fill the rooms. Incorporating indoor plants and switching to softer lighting can create a more positive atmosphere, leading to increased productivity.

Research Methods and Findings

Applied research in psychology involves scientific studies aimed at addressing everyday, real-life problems through psychological principles. Companies seeking innovative ways to keep employees engaged and refreshed can do so by integrating more natural elements into their workspaces. This could involve repainting with neutral earth tones, adding plant life, or even creating an outdoor garden break area. All of these strategies can contribute to improved productivity.

Plants in the Office

A study comparing traditional office spaces with those that incorporate indoor plants found that participants in the “lean” office took longer to feel satisfied with their work environment. In contrast, those in the “greener” office reported increased satisfaction after the introduction of plants (Nieuwenhuis et al., 2014). Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of incorporating plant life in the workplace, including enhanced positive attitudes, reduced psychological stress, improved air quality, and decreased absenteeism.

Natural Lighting

Another study involving 1,614 employees revealed that “access to natural light and views of the outdoors are the number one attribute of the workplace environment, outranking traditional amenities like onsite cafeterias, fitness centers, and premium perks such as on-site childcare” (Meister, 2018). The inclusion of natural light in workspaces can lead to reduced eye strain, fewer headaches, decreased grogginess, and fewer mistakes made by employees.

Mental Health and Well-being

Incorporating natural lighting and plants into office spaces offers numerous benefits. “Dr. Hedge’s recent research study found that optimizing natural light in an office significantly improves health and wellness among workers. In fact, this research revealed that workers in daylight office environments reported a 51% drop in the incidence of eyestrain, a 63% drop in headaches, and a 56% reduction in drowsiness” (Meister, 2018). Several companies have begun to enhance their office environments with natural light, plants, and opportunities for exercise. For instance, Amazon has developed “The Spheres,” office spaces designed to maximize natural lighting, greenery, and physical activity, all aimed at reducing employee psychological stress (heart rate, blood pressure, etc.) and improving overall satisfaction.

Conclusion

Meeting basic human needs for natural light and plants can not only boost productivity within a business but also foster a healthier work environment where employees feel satisfied. Creating a spac