Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences · Psychology · Undergraduate
Course Objective
This course aims to examine the reciprocal relationship between individuals and their physical environments from a psychological perspective. Students will analyze how environmental factors influence human behavior, emotions, attitudes, and well-being, and they will develop knowledge and skills to promote pro-environmental behaviors, manage environmental stress, and encourage sustainable living practices.
Course Content
The course covers the fundamental concepts, theories, and applications of environmental psychology. Topics include the psychological effects of natural and built environments, environmental stressors (noise, crowding, pollution, temperature), personal space and privacy, environmental attitudes, sustainability, and psychological responses to climate change. It also explores environmental justice, well-being, and the role of psychology in environmental policy.
Required Resources
Gifford, R. (2014). Environmental Psychology: Principles and Practice (5th ed.). Optimal Books.
Steg, L., & de Groot, J. (2019). Environmental Psychology: An Introduction (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.
Bell, P. A., Greene, T. C., Fisher, J. D., & Baum, A. (2001). Environmental Psychology (5th ed.). Harcourt College Publishers.
Recommended Resources
Schultz, P. W. (2002). Inclusion with nature: The psychology of human-nature relations. Psychology of Sustainable Development, 61–78.
Kaplan, S. (1995). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15(3), 169–182.
Explanations
This course enables students to understand human behavior in interaction with the environment, develop psychological solutions to environmental problems, and foster awareness of sustainability.
Rules
Attendance is mandatory (minimum 70%).
Active participation and group collaboration are encouraged throughout the semester.
Course Learning Outcomes
- Explain the core concepts and theoretical approaches of environmental psychology.
- Analyze the effects of environmental factors on human behavior and well-being.
- Identify psychological processes underlying pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors.
- Develop a psychological perspective on sustainability and environmental justice.
- Apply coping and intervention strategies related to environmental stress.
Core Area Distribution
Teaching Methods
Assessment & Evaluation
ECTS / Workload
| Activity | Quantity | Duration (h) | Total Workload |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Duration (Including Exam Week) | 16 | 3 | 48 |
| Out of Class Study Period | 16 | 3 | 48 |
| Midterm | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Quiz | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Assignment | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Practice | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Final | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Course Schedule
| Week | Subject | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Environmental Psychology | Required Readings |
| 2 | Core Concepts and Theoretical Perspectives | Required Readings |
| 3 | Natural Environments and Mental Health | Required Readings |
| 4 | Built Environments and Urban Psychology | Required Readings |
| 5 | Personal Space, Territoriality, and Privacy | Required Readings |
| 6 | Environmental Stress: Noise, Crowding, Temperature | Required Readings |
| 7 | Environmental Attitudes, Values, and Behavior | Required Readings |
| 8 | Exam | All Sources |
| 9 | Psychology of Sustainability | Required Readings |
| 10 | Climate Change and Psychological Responses | Required Readings |
| 11 | Environmental Disasters and Human Psychology | Required Readings |
| 12 | Environmental Justice and Psychology | Required Readings |
| 13 | Health, Well-being, and the Environment | Required Readings |
| 14 | Applications and Professional Opportunities | Required Readings |
| 15 | Review | Required Readings |
| 16 | Exam | All Sources |