Health through lens: Impact of digital photography engagement on pro-environmental behaviour and stress level among undergraduates in Nigeria

Against the backdrop of Nigeria’s ecological challenges and rising university students’ mental health concerns, this study examined the impact of digital photography engagement as a novel tool for promoting environmental consciousness and stress reduction among undergraduate students in Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, sampling 150 students from Federal, State and Private universities in Osun State Nigeria. The results show that digital photography has a predominantly positive impact on environmental behaviour and mental health, serving as a therapeutic outlet for stress management, enhancing mindfulness and supporting emotional expression and self-esteem. However, social comparison and perfectionism emerged as potential drawbacks. Key findings indicated that 85% of the respondents reported being inspired to engage in pro-environmental behaviours through sharing photographs of the natural environment on social media while 86% acknowledged the positive role of digital photography on the mental health. Also, 69% of respondents recognized the potential for digital photography to exacerbate feelings of pressure. Regression analysis revealed that engagement in nature digital photography predicts pro-environmental behaviour as R2 = 56%, F(1,148) = 75.334; P < 0.001). The study recommends encouraging digital photography as a hobby or therapeutic activity and integrating it into a mindfulness programme. Educating individuals about the potential negative impacts of social comparison and perfectionism is also crucial. Federal and State Ministries of Education, National University Commission (NUC) and other stakeholders in education should incorporate nature photography in the curriculum for promotion of pro-environmental behaviour among undergraduates and graduates of Nigerian Universities.