Ecopsychology

Ecopsychology explores humans’ psychological interdependence with the rest of nature and the implications for identity, health and well-being. Ecopsychology topics include emotional responses to nature; the impacts of environmental issues such as natural disasters and global climate change; and the transpersonal dimensions of environmental identity and concern.

Research and practice examples:

• Integrating outdoor activities into counseling or therapy
• Preventing burnout and despair regarding environmental issues
• Understanding transcendent experiences in nature

References

Doherty, T. J., & Clayton. S. (2011). The psychological impacts of global climate change. American Psychologist, 66, 265-276.

Kahn, P. H., & Hasbach, P. H. (Eds.) (2012). Ecopsychology: Science, totems, and the technological species. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

Stokols, D., Misra, S., Runnerstrom, M. G., & Hipp, J. A. (2009), Psychology in an age of ecological crisis: From personal angst to collective action. American Psychologist, 64, 181-193.