An ecopsychologist studies the emotional and psychological relationship between humans and the natural environment. This interdisciplinary field combines ecological and psychological principles to explore how humans are emotionally connected to, or alienated from, nature. Ecopsychologists examine how this connection affects individual and collective well-being, mental health, identity, and behavior toward the environment
. Key aspects of what ecopsychologists study include:
- The emotional bond between people and the Earth, viewing psychological issues in the context of a broader relationship with the more-than-human world
- How reconnecting spiritually and emotionally with nature can improve mental health and interpersonal relationships
- The psychological roots of environmentally damaging behaviors and ways to motivate sustainable lifestyles
- The mental health impacts of environmental crises such as climate change, pollution, and ecosystem degradation, including anxiety and despair linked to these issues
- Therapeutic approaches that incorporate nature connection and outdoor experiences to support psychological healing and well-being
In summary, ecopsychologists study the interplay between human psychology and the natural world, aiming to understand and heal the psychological disconnection from nature while promoting sustainability and mental health
