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Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
Psychological consequences of environmental degradation
E H Van Haaften1, F J Van De Vijver
1Wageningen Agricultural University, The Netherlands.
Journal of Health Psychology
|October 21, 2011
Summary
Environmental degradation in Burkina Faso causes significant stress and marginalization, particularly for Mossi agriculturalists compared to Fulani pastoralists. Modern attitudes exacerbate these psychological impacts on Sahel dwellers.
Area of Science:
- Environmental psychology
- Sociology
- African studies
Background:
- Environmental degradation poses significant challenges in the Sahel region.
- Psychological impacts of environmental change are understudied in vulnerable populations.
- Burkina Faso's Sahel dwellers, Mossi (agriculturalists) and Fulani (pastoralists), face distinct environmental pressures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological consequences of environmental degradation.
- To compare the stress and marginalization levels between agriculturalists and pastoralists.
- To explore the influence of modernity, gender, and coping mechanisms on psychological well-being.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 402 Mossi agriculturalists and 160 Fulani pastoralists in Burkina Faso.
- Utilized a Multiple Indicators, Multiple Causes (MIMIC) model to analyze relationships between variables.
- Assessed psychological outcomes including stress and marginalization, alongside factors like modernity and coping strategies.
Main Results:
- Agriculturalists reported higher stress and marginalization than pastoralists.
- Men experienced more marginalization and less stress than women.
- Modern attitudes correlated positively with increased stress and marginalization.
Conclusions:
- Environmental degradation significantly impacts the psychological well-being of Sahel dwellers.
- Distinct livelihood strategies (agriculture vs. pastoralism) influence vulnerability to environmental stress.
- Understanding these psychological dimensions is crucial for developing targeted interventions and sustainable environmental management in the region.
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