Timothy Pittaway
When we relocated to Scotland, one of my biggest concerns was how my daughter would cope with so much change. Bringing our pets along turned out to be more than a family decision, they became transitional objects, companions that gave her (and us) comfort and stability in a new environment. This personal experience inspired me to think about how people, communities, and even ecosystems need supports during times of disruption. In my latest short reel, I explore transitional vulnerabilities and how small interventions, like bird boxes or shelters can act as “transitional objects” for nature.
Transitional Vulnerabilities and the Role of Transitional Objects
When my family and I relocated to Scotland, one of my main concerns was how my daughter would adapt to a completely new environment. Change, even when positive, can be unsettling, new places, new faces, new routines. To help her manage this anxiety, we made the decision to bring our pets along. They weren’t just companions; they became transitional objects, anchors of familiarity in an unfamiliar landscape.
In psychology, transitional objects are typically associated with children: a teddy bear, blanket, or soft toy that provides comfort during times of change.
But the principle extends far beyond childhood. At moments of transitional vulnerability, when the stability of our lives, routines, or environments is disrupted, these objects (or beings, in our case) help bridge the gap between the known and the unknown.
>> CLICK HERE TO WATCH SHORT VIDEO REEL<<
This same principle applies when examining the natural world. In the above short video reel, I present on transitional vulnerabilities in Nature-based Solutions, I explored how both humans and non-humans face challenges when environments shift. Just as a child clings to a teddy bear during a move, species also require support to navigate disruption. Examples include:
- Bird boxes for nesting when habitats are disturbed.
- Animal shelters during periods of environmental stress.
- Fast-growing cover plants to provide food and protection after land use change.
- Amphibian protection in the face of rising waters that alter ecosystems.
These interventions serve as “transitional objects” for nature, helping species adapt rather than perish in the face of disruption.
The broader lesson is clear: resilience is not just about enduring change but about creating supports during transition. Whether for a child moving home, a community adapting to climate impacts, or ecosystems facing ecological upheaval, transitional supports are vital.
As we continue to design Nature-based Solutions, we should not only think about the end-state of resilience but also about the fragile in-between moments. That is where transitional vulnerabilities emerge and where the proper supports can make all the difference.
🔗 In this video, I ask one question: In what ways do your Nature-based Solutions address transitional vulnerabilities?
#TransitionalVulnerability #NatureBasedSolutions #Resilience #ChangeAndAdaptation #TransitionalObjects #EnvironmentalChange #SocioEcologicalSystems #SustainableTransitions #HumanAndNature #AdaptationStrategies