Representation of Nature-Based Leisure Experiences in New Media: A Qualitative Study on Online Reviews Representação de Experiências de Lazer Baseadas na Natureza em Novas Mídias: Um Estudo Qualitativo sobre Avaliações Online
E-Revista de Estudos Interculturais, cilt.2026, sa.14, 2026 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 2026 Sayı: 14
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Dergi Adı: E-Revista de Estudos Interculturais
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Connectedness to Nature, Gölcük Nature Park, Human-Nature Interaction, Nature-Based Leisure, New Media, Online Reviews
- Akdeniz Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
In a rapidly urbanizing world where alienation from the natural environment is increasing, it becomes crucial to understand how individuals perceive and represent their connection with nature through digital platforms. This research aims to explore nature-based leisure experiences in new media representations within the context of nature attachment, specifically focusing on the case of Isparta Gölcük Nature Park. Within the scope of the research, 1,649 posts related to the park on Google Maps between 2015 and 2025 were examined. Of these posts, 859 were reviews and ratings, while 790 were ratings only. A qualitative research approach was adopted in the study, and patterns found in online reviews shared on the Google Maps application were examined thematic content analysis method. The main consequences highlight three primary themes: connectedness to nature and seeking peace of mind, opportunities for social interaction, and concerns regarding the protection of the natural environment. The findings reveal that direct interaction with nature is vital for psychological restoration and social integration. Additionally, it is observed that the park experience is conveyed to wider audiences through new media, as online reviews and experiences are shared in the digital environment and transformed into a collective memory. According to the research results, Gölcük Nature Park's opportunities for nature-based leisure activities play an important role in promoting a connection with nature. Furthermore, concerns expressed by visitors through new media highlight the need for effective environmental management strategies.