Eco-anxiety among Sri Lankan children: a cross-sectional study of its links to climate knowledge and perceived worry

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined eco-anxiety levels among Sri Lankan children and explored their association with climate change knowledge and perceived worry. Understanding these relationships can inform interventions to address eco-anxiety in resource-limited settings.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 386 children aged 11–17 years from government schools in Colombo and Gampaha districts using randomized cluster sampling. Eco-anxiety was measured using Hogg’s Eco-Anxiety Scale (score range 0–39; categorized as low [0–13], moderate [14–26], and high [27–39]). Climate change knowledge and perceived worry were also assessed. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, chi-square tests, and mean comparisons with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used.  

Results: The mean eco-anxiety score was 11.9 (SD 2.32; 95% CI 11.7–12.1), with 38.3% demonstrating moderate-to-high eco-anxiety. Perceived worry was positively correlated with eco-anxiety (r = 0.23, p < 0.001; 95% CI 0.14–0.32). Younger adolescents (11–13 years) had higher eco-anxiety scores than older adolescents (16–17 years) (mean difference 1.8; 95% CI 1.5–3.1; p = 0.006). Participants with higher climate change knowledge reported higher eco-anxiety scores (r = 0.18, p = 0.007; 95% CI 0.05–0.30). Urban adolescents had higher eco-anxiety scores than rural counterparts (mean difference 3.2; 95% CI 1.8–4.6; p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Eco-anxiety is prevalent among Sri Lankan children, particularly among those with greater climate change knowledge and worry. Younger adolescents, urban dwellers, and those involved in environmental advocacy are more susceptible.  Balancing  climate  education  with mental health support is crucial to fostering resilience. Future research should explore interventions to mitigate climate-related distress.