RESEARCH

Identifying Types of Eco-Anxiety, Eco-Guilt, Eco-Grief, and Eco-Coping in a Climate-Sensitive Population: A Qualitative Study

The study identified six types of eco-anxiety, eight types of eco-guilt, and two types of eco-grief, highlighting the complex nature of these feelings related to climate change. Participants used six different coping strategies to manage these emotions, which influenced their engagement in pro-environmental behaviors and their ability to handle negative feelings.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Qualitative Research

Access: Free

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Summary

This study looks at the emotional and mental health effects of climate change. Researchers interviewed people to understand how they feel about climate change, focusing on feelings like anxiety, guilt, and grief. They wanted to know what specific types of these feelings exist and how people are coping with them. By understanding these emotions, the study aims to help people better manage their feelings about climate change and encourage actions that help the environment.

The interviews revealed different kinds of eco-anxiety, eco-guilt, and eco-grief. The study also identified several ways people are trying to cope with these feelings. These coping strategies are linked to whether people take action to protect the environment and how well they manage their negative emotions. The findings can help professionals understand climate change-related emotions and develop better ways to measure and address them.

Link

Ágoston, C., Csaba, B., Nagy, B., Kőváry, Z., Dúll, A., Rácz, J., & Demetrovics, Z. (2022). Identifying Types of Eco-Anxiety, Eco-Guilt, Eco-Grief, and Eco-Coping in a Climate-Sensitive Population: A Qualitative Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(4), 2461.

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