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This study is exploring how different outdoor settings impact people’s thinking. What we learn may help public land managers and everyday people who benefit from protected open spaces..
The research was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of San Diego, and by the following land management agencies: The US Forest Service, California State Parks, The City of Ventura Parks and Recreation, and the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department.
Enrollment for this study is now closed. Updates and findings will be available via Substack. Subscribe below.
Principal Investigator
Principal Investigator
Peter H. Nerothin is a PhD candidate at the University of San Diego, and a faculty member in the Recreation & Tourism Management Department at San Diego State University. As an executive coach, new father, and avid outdoors person, he is interested in the role parks and forests play in improving human psychology.
Peter earned his MA in Adventure Education at Prescott College, and BA in Economics at Gustavus Adolphus College. His research interests include wilderness, psychology, and leadership.
Beyond the university, he enjoys trail running and surfing with his wife and son.
Research Advisors
Research Advisors
Fred J. Galloway, EdD (Chair)
University of San Diego
Oregon State University
University of San Diego
University of Michigan
Study Updates
Study Updates
9/11/26: Study enrollment closed.
7/10/26: Data collection started.
6/21/26: Study enrollment opened.
9/17/25: Study approved by Institutional Review Board (IRB) review at the University of San Diego.
For information about the study, contact the Principal Investigator:
Peter Nerothin
Email: pnerothin@sandiego.edu
If you have questions about your rights as a research participant, or wish to obtain information, ask questions or discuss any concerns about this study with someone other than the researcher(s), please contact the following:
University of San Diego Institutional Review Board
5998 Alcalá Park San Diego, CA 92110
Telephone: (619) 260-4553
Email: irb@sandiego.edu
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