Children's pro-environmental behaviour: A systematic review of the literature

Abstract

To effectively confront the enormous environmental challenges the earth is currently experiencing, people will need to adopt more pro-environmental behaviours. In particular, a deeper understanding of children's experiences, attitudes and behaviour regarding the environment is critical for a sustainable future. Studies employing a range of research designs and measurements have identified various factors influencing children's pro-environmental behaviour (PEB). Yet a comprehensive overview of the literature in this area is lacking. This article reviews recent studies exploring this topic, targeting children between the ages of six and twelve years old. From an initial search of the literature, a total of 2768 records were identified, from which 76 studies were included in the final analysis. These studies employed observational or (quasi-)experimental designs, with a paucity of longitudinal studies identified. Studies often adopted self-reported scales rather than observational measurements to assess children's pro-environmental behaviours or behavioural intentions. Collectively, the findings from these studies identified nine key influencing factors associated with children's PEBs, including internal (e.g., self-efficacy) and external (e.g., contact with nature) factors. Understanding these influencing factors can inform how pro-environmental behaviour might best be promoted in children. Improvements in research designs and measurement methods of PEBs are still needed to further reveal the complexity of human behaviours and the interactive mechanism amongst different influencing factors.

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