Understanding Youth Environmentalism: An Analysis of Social Media and Eco-Anxiety Effects

Abstract

The goal of this research project was to gain insight into the relationships between eco-anxiety, social media usage, and environmentalism in Canadian youth. The impact of eco-anxiety on the environmentalism of youth has been studied, however, the role of social media in this relationship is less understood. Participants were recruited via social media and data was collected through online surveys and optional follow-up interviews. Participants largely felt that social media was a negative influence on their mental health and environmental orientations. Social media was generally seen as an unreliable resource, yet it was the most frequently used, indicating a disconnection between attitude and behaviour. This may result in reduced pro-environmental behaviours in youth who are negatively affected by environmental messaging online. Social media is an invaluable tool for inspiring motivation in youth to act in pro-environmental ways; it should be re-worked to create a more positive impact on this population.