Mapping the Solastalgia Literature: A Scoping Review Study

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Human Ecology
• Climate Change Adaptation

Background:

• Solastalgia links ecosystem health and human well-being, particularly mental and emotional health impacts from environmental degradation.
• Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are increasing the prevalence of solastalgia globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advance conceptual clarity and synthesize existing scholarly literature on solastalgia.
• To identify research gaps and priorities for future studies on solastalgia.
• To explore the conceptualization, experience, measurement, and place-based understanding of solastalgia.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review of 15 years of scholarly literature on solastalgia.
• Analysis guided by four key research questions on solastalgia's conceptualization, experience, place, and Indigenous engagement.

Main Results:

• Identified a need for diverse methodologies and broader geographical and demographic scope in solastalgia research.
• Highlighted the importance of engaging with affected populations and incorporating Indigenous worldviews.
• Emphasized the utility of the 'landscape' construct and the necessity of understanding Indigenous experiences of environmental transformation.

Conclusions:

• Further research is required to enhance conceptual clarity and theoretical foundations of solastalgia.
• Future studies should prioritize collaborative, community-engaged approaches, particularly with Indigenous peoples.
• There is a critical need to explore the practical applications and implications of solastalgia research for mental health and ecosystem well-being.