The effects of mindful learning on pro-environmental behavior: A self-expansion perspective.
This current article explores the differential effects of mindful learning on pro-environmental behavior from the perspective of self-expansion. A total of 253 participants were recruited for four experiments. In Study 1, the mindful-learning group reported greater levels of pro-environmental behavioral intentions compared to a randomized control. In Study 2, we utilized different learning materials focusing on self, humans, or the biosphere in three sub-experiments. Study 2a manipulated mindsets by a self-related focus and revealed participants in a mindfulness condition had lower pro-environmental behavioral intentions than those in the mindlessness group. Study 2b centered on "humans" and results showed that participants in a mindfulness group reported higher levels of pro-environmental behavioral intentions. Finally, Study 2c induced mindsets with a biospheric focus, showing participants in the mindful-learning condition had greater pro-environmental behavioral intentions. Combined, the studies provide empirical evidence that mindful learning could influence self-reported pro-environmental behavioral intentions both positively and negatively.
Department of Psychology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
Yanmei
Y
Tang
Department of Psychology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China. Electronic address: gengliuna@nju.edu.cn.
Liuna
L
Geng
Department of Psychology, California State University, San Marcos, USA. Electronic address: wschultz@csusm.edu.
P Wesley
PW
Schultz
Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Nanjing, China.
Kexin
K
Zhou
Department of Psychology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
Peng
P
Xiang
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D064866:Mindfulness; D057566:Self Report; D012919:Social Behavior; D055815:Young Adult
Mindful learning; Mindlessness; Pro-environmental behavior; Self-expansion