A new study from the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School reveals that reducing the perceived psychological distance of climate change can significantly help children cope with climate anxiety. The research, conducted by Associate Professor Geertje Schuitema and Dr Anthea Lacchia, compared how primary school children manage anxiety related to climate change and the Covid pandemic. The findings highlight actionable strategies to support young people’s mental well-being amid growing environmental concerns. The findings were published in the journal PLOS One.
Psychological distance refers to how far away an event feels in terms of time, space, control, or likelihood. The study collected data through surveys and sketches to explore children’s emotional responses. Results showed that climate change feels more psychologically distant than Covid, making it harder for children to apply coping strategies effectively. By bringing climate change closer psychologically, children can better engage with methods to manage their anxiety.
Coping improves when climate change feels closer
The research identifies four key coping strategies that become more effective when psychological distance is reduced:
- Emotion-focused strategies. These involve de-emphasising or reframing climate change to lessen the negative emotions it triggers.
- Problem-focused strategies. These shift attention to actionable solutions, such as recycling or reducing energy use.
- Meaning-focused strategies. These foster positive emotions like hope and trust in collective efforts to address climate change.
- Relationship-focused strategies. These rely on social support from peers, family, or teachers to regulate emotions.
The study found that relationship-focused strategies were particularly vital for children during the Covid pandemic. Social support, validation, and a sense of collective action proved effective in reducing anxiety. The researchers suggest that similar approaches could help with climate anxiety. For example, fostering a sense that everyone is working together on climate solutions can provide emotional relief for children.
“Climate anxiety among young children is a growing concern as it negatively impacts mental well-being,” says Professor Schuitema. “In order for any coping strategies to be truly effective, they must include support from policymakers, industry and others who are largely in control of climate mitigation actions.”
But the study notes a critical distinction: while reducing psychological distance helps children, prior research indicates it may increase climate anxiety in adults. This suggests that climate messaging must be tailored carefully. Strategies that motivate adults to act, such as emphasising the urgency of climate change, could unintentionally heighten anxiety in younger audiences. The researchers urge policymakers and educators to consider age-specific approaches when addressing climate concerns.
The findings come at a time when climate anxiety is increasingly recognised as a public health issue. A 2021 survey published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that 59% of young people aged 16-25 felt very or extremely worried about climate change. While the UCD study focused on younger children, its insights align with broader calls for mental health support in the context of environmental challenges.
To implement these findings, schools could integrate climate education that emphasises collective action and practical solutions. Community initiatives, such as local environmental projects, can also provide children with a sense of agency and connection. Policymakers play a crucial role by enacting visible climate measures that reassure young people their future is being prioritised.
