A Definition of Environmental Psychology

A Definition of Environmental Psychology

Environmental psychology is the study of how physical environments affect individual behavior by using scientific methods to study how people interact with both natural and man-made environments. One of the major aspects of environmental psychology is the  study and understanding of how human behavior affects our natural environment. A major concern for modern society is energy conservation, which has been a growing topic of public awareness (Stern, 1992). Some of the prominent issues that rekindled the discussion of energy conservation are related to increases in acid rain, growing air pollution in urban living environments, and the major concerns of global warming (Stern, 1992).

My personal interest in environmental psychology is multifaceted. Previous experience with environmental psychology in the workplace exposed me to understanding how various changes in the office environment can alter individual personalities and work performance. The studies of contemporary environmental psychology have produced some very powerful implications for both natural and man-made environments and human behavior (Demick, & Wapner, 1990). One of these milestones is the study of environmental pollution. Evolving studies associated with issues like coastal pollution provide humanity with empirical data that shows the increases in harmful chemical levels along heavily populated coastal areas (Demick, & Wapner, 1990). Failure to address these issues will result in notable danger to human health, and potential development of more resistant diseases in future generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, environmental psychology is not just about studying what wall colors will make employees perform better, or what various lighting sources will affect child learning abilities. It is a study of how both natural and man-made environments directly impact human existance.

References

Demick, J., & Wapner, S. (1990). Role of psychological science in promoting environmental quality: Introduction. American Psychologist, 45(5), 631-632. doi:10.1037/h0091627

Stern, P. C. (1992). What psychology knows about energy conservation. American Psychologist,             47(10), 1224-1232. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.47.10.1224