TY - JOUR

T1 - Push and pull factors determine adolescents' intentions of participation in nature observation: Reconnecting local students with nature in China

AU - Zhang, Weizhe

AU - Williams, Sophie J.

AU - Wang, Ximin

AU - Chen, Jin

PY - 2017

Y1 - 2017

N2 - Nature experiences are essential for fostering pro-environmental behavior. In this study, a wildlife observation toolbox was provided to students to encourage participation in nature observation clubs. A total of 340 adolescents joined the clubs. We identified the determinants of participation intentions with a mixed approach combing questionnaires and follow-up interviews. Nature connectedness and previous nature experiences were significant “push” factors for participation intention in nature clubs. No interest in plants and animals as “push” factor discouraged participation. This study highlights the importance of nature connectedness and makes another call for changing adolescents' environmental perception and access to nature.

AB - Nature experiences are essential for fostering pro-environmental behavior. In this study, a wildlife observation toolbox was provided to students to encourage participation in nature observation clubs. A total of 340 adolescents joined the clubs. We identified the determinants of participation intentions with a mixed approach combing questionnaires and follow-up interviews. Nature connectedness and previous nature experiences were significant “push” factors for participation intention in nature clubs. No interest in plants and animals as “push” factor discouraged participation. This study highlights the importance of nature connectedness and makes another call for changing adolescents' environmental perception and access to nature.

M3 - Article

VL - 16

SP - 247

EP - 261

JO - Applied Environmental Education Communication

JF - Applied Environmental Education Communication

IS - 4

ER -