Environmental psychology is an interdisciplinary field focused on the interplay between individuals and their surroundings. The field defines the term environment broadly, encompassing natural environments, social settings, built environments, learning environments, and informational environments.
Environmental psychology seeks to understand the interactions between
human beings and all these different systems that comprise the
environment we live in. Therefore, environmental psychology is an
interdisciplinary field that is related to different fields and sciences
such as sociology, anthropology, environmental science, etc.
importance of environmental psychology
1. Environmental psychology contributes to sustainable development in a
number of ways.
2. Environmental psychologists can assist environmental
agents in forming an applicable sustainable development policy.
3. The interaction of businesses with their customers or employees in
relation to the ways they communicate environmental information is also a
subject of research in environmental psychology.
4. To sum up, it can be said that, even though environmental psychology is a
relatively new field of psychology, it has already contributed much to
the improvement of many peoples’ quality of life. The holistic approach
of environmental psychology in the research of human behavior and its
implications on the natural environment is in sync with sustainable
development.
5. Environmental psychology can play an important role in the future as the
environmental problems around the world escalate and the development of
sustainable behaviors is becoming more pressing. Environmental
psychologists could create a better future for individuals.
Environmental Stressors
Stressors that are found in our surroundings are called environmental stressors. Everyday life is full of environmental stressors that cause minor irritations. If you use an alarm clock to wake up, the loud noise from your alarm is an environmental stressor. Extreme temperatures are also environmental stressors and can lead to discomfort. Other common environmental stressors include:
- Noise
- Crowding
- Air quality
- Colors
- Tornadoes and other natural disasters
- War and other manmade disasters
- Light
- Insects
Recent research has linked extreme temperatures, crowding, and noise with increased levels of discomfort and aggression. Studies have also shown that crime rates are higher during those hot summer days. Different colors can raise or lower your stress levels. For example, green is often associated with life and growth and is known to reduce tension and anxiety. Exposure to light can improve your mood and decrease fatigue, while prolonged exposure to darkness can interfere with sleep patterns and lead to symptoms of depression.
