Influences of ecological consciousness

Abstract

This study examines six of these common influences of ecological consciousness, as well as e new feasible influence: economic concern. The New Ecological Paradigm scale was used to measure ecological consciousness and was found to be a valid measure of ecological consciousness (Dunlap, Mertig, Harding, & Jones, 2000). Results confirmed a person's desire to protect nature increases their ecological consciousness and placing economic concerns before environmental concerns decreases it. Results also supported previous studies findings that outdoor activities during childhood and appreciative forms of recreation have are positive relationship with people's ecological consciousness. Implications for professionals who are attempting to influence public opinion on the need for ecological consciousness are discussed as well.