The role of climate change denial and psychological well-being in pro-environmental behaviour: a preliminary study / El rol de la negación del cambio climático y el bienestar psicológico en el comportamiento proambiental: un estudio preliminar

Abstract

The present study addresses two variables having a direct relation with pro-environmental behaviour (PEB): climate change denial (CCD) and psychological well-being. Previous research has indicated that denial can be considered a coping strategy for climate change, and this could negatively affect PEB. In addition, evidence shows that well-being could be a promoter of environmentalism. Hence, the study aims to identify the combined relation of climate change denial and psychological well-being on PEB. A sample of 196 participants, aged 18–65+, was randomly selected using quota sampling reflecting age distribution, from a city in northwest Mexico. Results confirmed that CCD is negatively associated with PEB and that the association between psychological well-being and PEB is positive. The study found no significant covariance between CCD and well-being. The findings underscore the need for interventions targeting climate denial and the promotion of well-being to enhance environmental actions.