This page gathers research papers, articles, and external resources related to social connection, belonging, cultural engagement, and relational wellbeing in travel contexts.
Sources here inform Nomadic Balance content on travelling with others, navigating shared attention, and staying connected without losing presence.
Sources
Self-Control as a Limited Resource
Introduces the influential idea that self-control relies on a finite pool of mental energy, helping explain why sustained decision-making and regulation feel harder over time.
🔗 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2007.00534.x
Cognitive Load Theory
Explains how excessive information and complexity overload working memory, reducing clarity, learning, and effective decision-making.
🔗 https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-8126-4
Self-Determination Theory and Psychological Needs
Outlines how autonomy, competence, and relatedness underpin motivation and wellbeing, offering a framework for understanding sustainable behaviour and mental health.
🔗 https://doi.org/10.7202/1041847ar
How Human–Animal Interaction Supports Stress Regulation
Explains how interacting with animals (such as petting or spending time with them) can help reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and promote feelings of calm and safety, potentially through oxytocin-related pathways.
🔗 https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00234
Social Norms and Drinking Behaviour
Shows how perceived group norms strongly influence alcohol consumption, framing drinking as a socially regulated behaviour rather than a simple matter of willpower.
🔗https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2012.73.276