Emotions, Reflexivity and the Long Haul: What We Do About How We Feel About Climate Change

Abstract

A range of group work methodologies exist to acknowledge, explore and encourage the processing of the complex, and sometimes contradictory emotions aroused by issues of social and environmental concerns. These reflexive methodologies vary in intensity and accessibility and lie at the interface of psychological and social approaches to climate change. This chapter will give an overview of methodologies used in the UK by civil society organisations. It will summarise existing research, and present initial findings from interviews with facilitators about what they feel their methods can achieve. It will conclude by reflecting on the role of these methodologies for engaging with, and sustaining action on, climate change.