Extreme weather, climate change, climate action and uncertainty distress: an exploratory study using network analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Both extreme weather and climate change have been linked to distress and at times mental health problems. Pro-environmental actions have often been related to higher distress. The uncertainty distress model (Freeston et al., 2020) proposes that in real-world situations, perceptions of threat and uncertainty contribute to distress. The aim of this study is to integrate variables from these two literatures and examine their relationships. Method: A community sample (n=327) was recruited and completed an online survey. Network analysis was used to analyse the relationships between the variables. Exposure to extreme weather, perceptions of climate change, climate change distress and pro-environmental action were measured along with symptoms of adjustment disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, and uncertainty intolerance and behaviours. Results: There was variable exposure to extreme weather, but greater exposure was associated with more severe post-traumatic symptoms. Pro-environmental action was associated with greater severity of adjustment disorder symptoms. The perception that climate change was happening now was linked positively to pro-environmental action and negatively to perceptions of uncertainty about whether climate change was happening. Discussion: The results replicate several findings from the emerging climate change distress literature and are consistent with some predictions of the uncertainty distress model, but not others. Uncertainty as to whether climate change is happening now may be a less distressing position. Research that simultaneously considers extreme weather and climate change may help understanding the range of complex responses that may arise as the frequency of extreme weather increases and evidence for anthropogenic climate change strengthens. Key learning aims (1) To consider why the uncertainty distress model may be an appropriate framework to understand responses to extreme weather and climate change. (2) To consider how the perceived proximity of climate change may play a role in peoples’ emotional and behavioural responses to climate change. (3) To consider some of the variables that are linked to pro-environmental action. (4) To consider whether an uncertainty-based understanding of extreme weather and climate change has helpful implications for practice.