Sensory Compensation and Nature Connectedness: Psychological Mechanisms of Therapeutic Effects in Urban Dark Park Visitors

Sensory Compensation and Nature Connectedness: Psychological Mechanisms of Therapeutic Effects in Urban Dark Park Visitors

Liu Dongyu^*, Zhu Zhenya, Fauzi Naeim, Mo Yunjie

Faculty of Creative Industries, City University Malaysia

*Corresponding Author

Publication Information

Journal Title: International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS)
Author(s): Dongyu*,Liu ;Zhenya, Zhu;Naeim, Fauzi;Yunjie, Mo 
Published On: 01/31/2026
Volume: 9
Issue: 5
First Page: 6118
Last Page: 6124
ISSN: 2454-6186

Cite this Article Dongyu*,Liu ;Zhenya, Zhu;Naeim, Fauzi;Yunjie, Mo , Sensory Compensation and Nature Connectedness: Psychological Mechanisms of Therapeutic Effects in Urban Dark Park Visitors, Volume 9 Issue 5, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS),6118-6124, Published on 01/31/2026, Available at https://rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/articles/sensory-compensation-and-nature-connectedness-psychological-mechanisms-of-therapeutic-effects-in-urban-dark-park-visitors/

Abstract

As a unique nature-based therapeutic space, dark parks leverage visual deprivation and multisensory immersion to potentially benefit mental health. Drawing on environmental psychology and sensory anthropology, this paper examines the psychological mechanisms of dark parks through the lenses of Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and Stress Reduction Theory (SRT). Key findings suggest that healing effects operate via: (1) sensory compensation reducing anxiety, (2) enhanced nature connectedness in nocturnal ecological immersion, and (3) awe emotion triggered by stargazing facilitating emotional regulation. The study offers innovative insights into utilizing darkness as a therapeutic resource for urban populations.

Keywords: Sensory Deprivation, Nature Therapy, Dark Park, Light Pollution, Circadian Entrainment