Psychological Research and Global Climate Change

Authors

Susan Clayton, The College of WoosterFollow
Patrick Devine-Wright, University of Exeter
Paul C. Stern, National Academy of Sciences
Lorraine Whitmarsh, Cardiff University
Amanda Carrico, University of Colorado
Linda Steg, University of Groningen
Janet Swim, The Pennsylvania State University
Mirilia Bonnes, Sapienza University of Rome

Publication Date

1-1-2015

Document Type

Article

Volume

5

Abstract

Human behaviour is integral not only to causing global climate change but also to responding and adapting to it. Here, we argue that psychological research should inform efforts to address climate change, to avoid misunderstandings about human behaviour and motivations that can lead to ineffective or misguided policies. We review three key research areas: describing human perceptions of climate change; understanding and changing individual and household behaviour that drives climate change; and examining the human impacts of climate change and adaptation responses. Although much has been learned in these areas, we suggest important directions for further research.

Recommended Citation

Clayton, Susan; Devine-Wright, Patrick; Stern, Paul C.; Whitmarsh, Lorraine; Carrico, Amanda; Steg, Linda; Swim, Janet; and Bonnes, Mirilia, "Psychological Research and Global Climate Change" (2015). Nature Climate Change, , 640-646. 10.1038/nclimate2622. Retrieved from https://openworks.wooster.edu/facpub/328