The Psychological Impact of Climate Change on Youth: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to global well-being, with youth identified as a particularly vulnerable population. This systematic literature review explores the psychological impact of climate change on young people. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, coupled with the pervasive awareness of environmental degradation, contribute to a range of adverse psychological outcomes in youth. This review addresses the critical need to understand these impacts to inform effective interventions and support systems. Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched electronic databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, for peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2024 that examined the relationship between climate change and youth mental health. Search terms included psychology or attitude or behaviour and climate and change or crisis and youth or teens or teenager. The database found (n=25) final primary data was analysed. The finding was divided into three themes which is (1) climate change impacts and vulnerability, (2) climate change communication, perception, and discourse and (3) climate change education and action. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate the psychological burden of climate change on youth. These interventions should focus on building resilience, promoting coping mechanisms, fostering community support, and empowering young people to engage in climate action. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to understand the long-term effects of climate change on youth mental health and explore culturally sensitive approaches to intervention development.