Our research
This research project examines how the climate debate is perceived by the public and the extent to which it reinforces feelings of hopelessness and being overwhelmed. It also focuses on determining whether these emotional reactions influence pro-climate behavior. By analyzing climate change messages, empirical studies and neuropsychophysiological research, insights will be gained to develop targeted strategies to improve climate communication. The research also directly addresses journalists and public figures in order to provide them with insights into the socio-psychological mechanisms of threat rhetoric in the climate debate and to support the trend towards "solution-oriented journalism".
Main research areas
Analysis of climate reporting
We investigate how climate issues are presented in the media and how this affects public opinion and behavior. By analyzing articles and news reports from recent years, we gain insights into trends and patterns in climate communication.
Investigation of individual and social reactions
We investigate how people react to different types of climate messages and which factors influence their behavior. We take into account both conscious and unconscious reactions as well as individual differences in the perception and interpretation of climate information.
Development of communication strategies
Based on our findings, we develop targeted strategies to improve climate communication. Our aim is to identify effective approaches that motivate people to adopt climate-friendly behavior and at the same time promote hope and a willingness to act.
Our publications
- Upswing in reporting on climate protection. Long-term development of topics and moods in Austrian newspapers (Raven Adam, Marie Lisa Kogler, Martina Scholger)
- Threat and Anxiety in the Climate Debate-An Agent-Based Model to Investigate Climate Scepticism and Pro-Environmental Behavior (Marie Kogler, Georg Jänger)
