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Perceptions of Eco-Anxiety in Parents With Preschool Children

Author

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  • Hatice Öner
  • Ömer Uslu
  • Hava Salik

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Eco anxiety is a negative emotional state that affects all societies at different levels as a result of climate change. This study was aimed to examine perceptions of eco-anxiety in parents who had preschool children. Methods: The participants consisted of 15 parents who had children aged between 3 and 6 years and voluntarily took part in the study. The semi-structured interview form used in the study comprised three main components: cognitive perceptions regarding climate change, emotional responses, and coping strategies. The MAXQDA 2020 software package and inductive content analysis were used in the analysis of the data and the creation of the models. Results: Three themes were elicited from the statements of the participants: “thoughts on climate change,†“emotions,†and “coping with climate anxiety.†It was found that the experiences of the participants, written and visual information sources, and observations on the environment were decisive in the formation of their perceptions about climate change. It was observed that the participants tried to overcome their climate anxiety by spending more time in nature with their families and trying to act responsibly. Conclusion: In conclusion, parents’ concerns about climate change are directly linked to their worries regarding the quality of life and future of their children. This state of anxiety also fosters the development of environmental awareness and the adoption of sustainable living practices among parents. In this context, eco-anxiety is not considered a passive emotional state, but rather a guiding psychological process associated with active coping mechanisms. Education programs to cope with climate change anxiety and to increase the level of adjustment to climate change can be beneficial.

Suggested Citation

  • Hatice Öner & Ömer Uslu & Hava Salik, 2026. "Perceptions of Eco-Anxiety in Parents With Preschool Children," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 72(2), pages 219-231, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:72:y:2026:i:2:p:219-231
    DOI: 10.1177/00207640251389054
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Hannah Comtesse & Verena Ertl & Sophie M. C. Hengst & Rita Rosner & Geert E. Smid, 2021. "Ecological Grief as a Response to Environmental Change: A Mental Health Risk or Functional Response?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-10, January.
    2. Panu Pihkala, 2020. "Anxiety and the Ecological Crisis: An Analysis of Eco-Anxiety and Climate Anxiety," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(19), pages 1-20, September.
    3. Ashlee Cunsolo & Neville R. Ellis, 2018. "Ecological grief as a mental health response to climate change-related loss," Nature Climate Change, Nature, vol. 8(4), pages 275-281, April.
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