This course will introduce students to a variety of topics in psychology as they relate to climate change and the psychological study of sustainable human behaviour. Topics covered will include the threats of a changing environment to mental health and wellbeing; the development of coping mechanisms and resilience for individuals and communities affected negatively by climate changeanda changing environment; perceptions of risk, and how beliefs and attitudes are developed, maintained, and updated; effective principles for communicating about climate changeand sustainable behaviour; how social identity affects experiences and perceptions of a changing environment; empirically validated methods for promoting pro-environmental behaviour; and how, when required, we can best motivate people to action.
Priority will be given to students in the Specialist/Specialist Co-op and Major/Major Co-op programs in Psychology and Mental Health Studies. Students in the Minor program in Psychology will be admitted as space permits.
