Impact of Climate Change Anxiety on Quality of Life among Young Adults

Abstract

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the impact of climate change anxiety on quality of life among young adults. Data was collected by participants of age 18-30 years (n = 190) through convenience sampling method by filling a questionnaire which consists of 22 items of climate change anxiety scale by Clayton and Karazsia, measuring climate change anxiety and WHOQOL BREF (World Health Organization Quality of life- brief version) used for measuring quality of life. Pearson’s correlation showed that although there was no significant relationship found between climate change anxiety and quality of life, but a positive significant relationship exists between behavioral engagement towards climate change with QOL-social relations (0.184) at p < .05. The current study fills an important research gap by providing insight upon how acting towards climate change by getting involved in communities helps people to decrease negative feelings like hopelessness towards climate change and improves our quality of life in aspects of social relations. This study also highlights areas for further investigation.