RESEARCH

Measuring Eco-Emotions: A German Version of Questionnaires on Eco-Guilt, Ecological Grief, and Eco-Anxiety

This study translated and validated German versions of questionnaires measuring eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety in a large sample. The translated questionnaires aimed to provide reliable tools for assessing these emotions and their relationship to climate action and mental health.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: General Population
Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest, Homes/Private Residences
Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Improved Stress Management
Allied Profession Intersections: Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy
Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Quantitative Research
Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools
Access: Free
Print Form

Summary

This study focused on creating a German version of questionnaires that measure eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety. Researchers translated and validated the Eco-Guilt Questionnaire, the Ecological Grief Questionnaire, and the Eco-Anxiety Questionnaire in a large German sample. The methods involved confirmatory factor analyses to replicate the factor structures of the questionnaires and to investigate the associations between eco-emotions, climate action intentions, climate policy support, climate anxiety, and psychological distress.

All eco-emotions were positively associated with climate action intentions and climate policy support, but also with climate anxiety, general anxiety, and depression. The study concluded that the translated questionnaires are suitable for measuring eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety, capturing both adaptive and maladaptive aspects of these emotions.

Link

Zeier, P., & Michèle Wessa. (2024). Measuring eco-emotions: a German version of questionnaires on eco-guilt, ecological grief, and eco-anxiety. Discover Sustainability, 5(1).

 

Other Recommended Research

Seed Trivia

True or false and open-ended questions about seed starting.

Animal Plants

A list of plants named after animals and other fauna. The activity plan offers various ways to use this list in a TH setting, such as a plant study or themed planters.

Gratitude Garden

A reflective exercise where participants fill in things they are grateful for on the petals of a flower.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .