Climate Anxiety and Youth Social Behavior: A Cross-Cultural Analysis of Ecological Concern and Environmental Engagement

Abstract

Climate anxiety is emerging as a powerful psychological response among youth in the face of escalating ecological crises, yet its implications for pro-environmental behavior remain underexplored in cross-cultural contexts. This study investigates the relationship between climate anxiety and climate-related social behaviors among youth in four culturally and geographically distinct countries: Japan, Pakistan, Germany, and Kenya. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from a total of 1,200 participants (aged 18–30) via structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Quantitative analysis revealed significant differences in levels of climate anxiety and behavioral engagement across regions, with Japanese youth reporting the highest anxiety and behavioral scores, while Pakistani youth exhibited high anxiety but comparatively lower behavioral action. In contrast, Kenyan youth demonstrated moderate anxiety but relatively higher practical engagement. Correlation and regression analyses confirmed a significant positive relationship between climate anxiety and pro-environmental behavior (r = 0.61, p < 0.01). Qualitative insights highlighted the influence of media exposure, cultural narratives, educational systems, and trust in institutions as mediators of this relationship. The findings suggest that while climate anxiety can act as a motivator for social behavior, its expression and impact are deeply shaped by contextual factors. The study underscores the need for culturally adaptive, psychologically informed interventions to empower youth in climate action globally.