International Psychology and Climate Change

Full course description

The climate crisis is an intersectional major challenge of contemporary society. In order to tackle it and mitigate its effects, transdisciplinary insights are required. In essence, the heating of the earth needs to be limited to prevent our ecosystems from collapsing. At the same time, the already devastating consequences on (mental) health need to be recognized and dealt with. As human behavior is at the root of these challenges, Psychology, the science of behavior, gives important approaches.  

To get an insight on how psychology and climate change are interrelated, this student-led elective seeks first, to provide a basic understanding of climate change. At the same time, the two-way human-nature relationship gets explored. Thus, students will learn why humans cannot be seen independent of the environment and how cultural perspectives on nature differ.

Next, the focus lies on the role of psychology. Part of that are the consequences and anticipatory effects of climate change on mental health (e.g climate anxiety, trauma). Additionally, students will investigate findings about how both individual and social processes result in (un-)sustainable decisions and behaviors. And how these factors can be used to promote sustainable behavior.

After having built this knowledge base, students will examine examples of climate-protecting approaches. An important part of this is to consider different cultural perspectives. 

Lastly, an essential goal of the elective is to apply the newly gained knowledge. Throughout the whole course of four weeks, students will develop a project in collaboration with other students. The project will deal with creating a strategy about a self-chosen aspect of climate change. Furthermore, self-reflection tasks will enhance the learning process throughout the course.