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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Using Generative Art to Convey Past and Future Climate Transitions
Published on: March 31, 2023
Human behavioral contributions to climate change: psychological and contextual drivers
Janet K Swim1, Susan Clayton, George S Howard
1Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802-3106, USA. jks4@psu.edu
Abstract:
We are facing rapid changes in the global climate, and these changes are attributable to human behavior. Humans produce this global impact through our use of natural resources, multiplied by the vast increase in population seen in the past 50 to 100 years. Our goal in this article is to examine the underlying psychosocial causes of human impact, primarily through patterns of reproduction and consumption. We identify and distinguish individual, societal, and behavioral predictors of environmental impact. Relevant research in these areas (as well as areas that would be aided by greater attention by psychologists) are reviewed. We conclude by highlighting ethical issues that emerge when considering how to address human behavioral contributions to climate change.
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