University of Twente Student Theses
Pro-environmental behavior : identifying determinants that could predict different types of pro-environmental behavior
Derckx, J.M.A. (2015) Pro-environmental behavior : identifying determinants that could predict different types of pro-environmental behavior.
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| Abstract: | This study aims to integrate internal and external determinants in an understanding framework and to investigate whether there is a difference in predicting behavior between different types of pro-environmental behavior (PEB). Gaining a detailed understanding of which determinants could predict PEB is important for strategy makers and researchers seeking solutions to environmental problems that require behavioral change. To realize this objective, an in-depth literature review is conducted where determinants and specific types of PEB are identified. Based on this literature review a new model is concluded. This model expands the theory of planned behavior and also takes into account attitudinal beliefs, the influence of the Dutch government and habitual behavior. Such a comprehensive model has not been developed before and can offer a systematic approach for explaining different types of PEB. At the end a questionnaire is conducted to test the validity of this model and to compare the predictive power of the determinants between the specific types of PEB. The results showed that each type of PEB is explained by multiple determinants which indicate that the most effective behavior change strategies involve combinations of determinants. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that the determinants attitude and biospheric values are the main predictors of the intention to act pro-environmentally and the specific types of PEB. In addition, the determinants responsibility, defeatism and perceived costs & benefits are attitudinal beliefs and can predict an individual’s attitude. To conclude, this study has identified seven types of PEB and proved that the determinants between these different types of PEB can differ. Furthermore, the present study has proved that the determinant attitude has underlying beliefs and that a general attitude could be seen as an evaluation of these beliefs. Finally, the model of determinants of PEB and the specific types of PEB provide a standard for further research. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 05 communication studies |
| Programme: | Communication Studies MSc (60713) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/67976 |
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