University of Twente Student Theses
Is environmental activism stigmatized among youth? : How German adolescents make sense of their future in the face of climate change
Koppmeier, Laura (2020) Is environmental activism stigmatized among youth? : How German adolescents make sense of their future in the face of climate change.
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| Abstract: | Regarding climate change, information about the German youth, especially the ones not engaged in environmental activism (EA), is lacking. Previous research highlights the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) for exploring pro-environmental behaviour (Ajzen, 1991). Furthermore, imagination of the future was found relevant for examining individuals’ future perspectives. Purpose of this study was to gain insight into future perspectives of German adolescents and their intentions. Research question(s): How do German adolescents make sense of their future in the face of climate change and how do the antecedents of the TPB shape their intentions for environmental activism? During a focus group session, future perspectives of four German adolescents (16-18 years) were elicited using letters from the future followed by a discussion exploring these perspectives and the TPB elements. Using a thematic analysis, eight main themes were identified. Findings indicate that the participants were conflicted between living their lives as usual and their knowledge and concern about negative future developments. Furthermore, the adolescents seem to experience a stigmatization of EA. The participants’ perspectives for the future and the identified attitudes, norms and barriers offer input for how adolescents’ objectives can be integrated into sustainable development, as aimed for by the UN. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/80516 |
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