Architecture and the Environment

          The interaction that occurs between the environment and humans is an interplay that influences and affects both the environment and humans. This interplay affects the well-being of both the environment and humans, and the quality of life and behavior of humans. The environment shapes the behavior of humans by way of environmental cues. Modifying such behavior is necessary to support sustainability in order to limit the negative effects of such behavior on the environment. Also, social norms can influence the beliefs and behavior in regard to the environment. Such behavior and habits in regard to the environment can possible change to lessen negative environmental effects through particular solutions.  

Environmental Cues Shape Behavior 

          Environments have the ability to influence and shape the behavior of humans, and one significant way in which environments influence and shape behavior is by way of cues, also referred to as environmental cues. Steg (2013), “cues are elements in the environment that convey important information or trigger an affective reaction” (p. 120). Environmental cues inform individuals as to what is occurring in environments and such cues also inform individuals, that is, in how to behave in response to what occurs in environments. Therefore, environmental cues are a means of influencing and shaping behavior. For instance, an environmental cue is litter on the ground. Therefore, as an individual is jogging through the park and sees the litter on the ground, which is the environmental cue that influences that particular individual’s behavior in a means to stop jogging, pick up the litter, and throw it away in the trash. Seeing such a cue influenced that particular individual’s behavior.
          Environmental cues are not only means of influencing and shaping behavior but are also a means of solving particular behavior problems. For instance, if particular individuals or students in a classroom fail to stop being talkative or disruptive when a teacher is trying to instruct the classroom, then the teacher can quickly turn on and off the lights in the classroom. The flashing lights are a cue for the particular individuals or students to stop being talkative and disruptive. Soon enough these particular individuals or students will learn that such behavior will result in the cue of flashing lights within the classroom. Therefore, such a cue solves these particular behavioral problems.  

Behavior can be modified to Support Sustainability 

          Environmental psychology has a continual and growing concern which is trying to find the means to modify the behavior of humans to support sustainability, and to preserve the quality of life and well-being of humans (Steg, 2013). However, the concern of sustainability goes beyond environmental psychology concerns and has become a global concern, which reflects the extensive fears of deteriorating humans’ quality of life (Barkin, 1998). Sustainability refers to a well-balanced relationship between humans and the environments they inhabit; this involves finding an ideal balance between economic, social, and environmental qualities (Steg, 2013). Sustainability is to the use, development, and protection of resources at a particular pace and means that enables individuals to currently meet their needs and can ensure that future generations also meet their needs (Steg, 2013).
          Certain individuals usually understand sustainability as a means of not consuming resources in a faster means than the production of such resources and by not polluting the environment in a means that is irreversible. However, these same individuals and numerous other individuals need to better support sustainability. Therefore, to support sustainability the behavior of individuals needs modifying in order to limit the negative effect on the environment. By modifying behavior in regard to fossil fuel usage and limiting energy consumption, individuals can limit the effects of pollution in the environment from high fossil fuel usage and by using energy more efficiently. Also, this involves modifying behavior in regard to using renewable energy and using less or relying less on fossil fuels or using them at all. Also, by modifying behavior in regard to recycling, that is, less waste means limiting the negative effects of such waste on the environment. Also, specific beliefs about the significance in regard to recycling have an influence on recycling behavior (McCarty & Shrum, 2001). Modifying these types of behaviors to support sustainability can limit negative effects on the environment.

Social Norms Influence Behavior and Beliefs about the Environment

          Social norms are informal enforced rules that some consensus agree on, and they govern the behavior of individuals in society (Steg, 2013). Social norms are as aspects that produce beliefs and behaviors; as well as influencing beliefs and behavior in regard to the environment. Social norms can also be representations of associations between beliefs and behavior in regard to the environment (Aarts & Dijksterhuis, 2013). For instance, social norms such as water conservation and recycling have the ability to influence environmental beliefs and behavior such as pro-environmental beliefs and behavior in regard to the environment. Pro-environmental beliefs and behavior are beliefs and behavior that do as little harm to the environment as possible (Steg, 2013). Also, individuals may adopt explicit beliefs and behavior of seeking to minimize negative effects that harm the environment because of social norms.
          However, in an environment whereas the social norms are not to conserve water and not to recycle than this can influence the beliefs and behavior of individuals in regard to non-pro-environmental beliefs and behavior which cause harm to the environment.

Possible Solutions that could successfully change Habits and Behavior

          In order to decrease negative environmental effects, individuals have to use solutions to successfully change habits and behavior. Several possible solutions may exist to successfully change habits and behavior to decrease negative environmental effects. Two possible solutions are to adopt energy-efficient solutions and the adoption of new technologies. When adopting energy-efficient solutions such as using and incorporating energy-efficient products this helps to decrease negative environmental effects because such products consume less energy and require less use of fossil fuels; therefore, this indeed helps to decrease negative environmental effects. Also, in regard to the adoption of new technologies, it is a possible solution as to changing habits and behavior to decrease negative environmental effects because newer technologies are solutions to costly older technologies that effect the environment in negative ways.
          These two solutions are possible solutions because individuals’ habits and behavior may change when adopting energy-efficient solutions such as using and incorporating energy efficient products and adopting new technologies. The reason is that individuals have to become familiar with such solutions; which changes habits and behavior; thereby, decrease negative environmental effects.  

Conclusion

    The environment has an effect on individuals by way shaping their behavior through cues. Modifying behavior in regard to fossil fuel usage, energy consumption, and recycling can support sustainability and limits the negative effects on the environment. Social norms indeed influence beliefs and behavior in regard to the environment. Solutions such as to adopt energy-efficient solutions and the adoption of new technologies can alter behavior and habits, that is, to decrease negative environmental effects.  

Reference

Aarts, H., & Dijksterhuis, A.P., (2013). The Silence of the Library: Environment, Situational Norm, and Social Behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(1), Jan 2003, 18-28.
Barkin, D. (1998). Sustainability. Organization & Environment, 11(1), 5-32. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/219868623?accountid=458
McCarty, J.A., & Shrum, L.J. (2001). The Influence of Individualism, Collectivism, and Locus of Control on Environmental Beliefs and Behavior. Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, 20(1), 93-104.
Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

In what ways can architecture impact human behavior? What affects have you seen in your own life concerning your reactions to different architectural designs?

          Architecture can impact or affect human behavior in positive and negative ways, and impact or affect the health and well-being of humans, as well as human performance; which has an effect on human behavior. In particular, it is varying architectural designs that impact or affect human behavior. Humans spend the majority of their lives in built environments and less of their lives in natural environments; therefore, it is inevitable that architecture regardless of whether it is residential or commercial architectural designs will indeed impact or affect human behavior in positive and negative ways. The direct and indirect consequences of architectural designs can either be functionally appropriate and aesthetically pleasing to humans; therefore, fostering positive behavior or functionally inappropriate by imposing restrictions on behavior.

          In my life I have seen, resided in, and worked in residential and commercial architectural designs that either were functionally designed and were aesthetically pleasing or were not, and that incorporated nature and did not. For instance, in regards to certain commercial architectural designs, the buildings were not aesthetically pleasing designs and had poor lighting or no natural lighting and no open space designs; which had a negative affect on behavior and employee morale. In these types of architectural designs employees and I felt confined and crowded.             

What observations have you made concerning the psychological effects of different commercial designs?

          The observations that I have made concerning the psychological effects of different commercial designs is that each particular design has varying psychological affects on each inhabiting individual. Commercial designs that incorporate aspects of nature are conducive to the psychological well-being of individuals because nature has the ability to lower stress levels. Even commercial designs with natural lighting or that allows varying views of nature affect the psychological well-being of individuals. Especially, designs with open spaces with windows on every side of the building such as with the office building I work in in downtown Charlotte. Also, there is a courtyard in front of the building with numerous trees and waterfalls that gives some sense of nature to the buildings inhabitants. 

Reference

Augustin, S. (2009). Place Advantage: Applied Psychology for Interior Architecture. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

How have residential architectural designs improved over the last several centuries? Please include examples in your response.

          Residential architectural design has improved tremendously over the last several centuries. Technology has become more prevalent in residential architectural design. Augustin (2009), "technology will not stop evolving, and homes that are going to be continually satisfying to their owners have to be able to evolve to take advantage of new technology forms" (p. 177). For example, with the advances in technology, now architects are designing smart homes to incorporate new technologies that perform particular activities that humans formerly performed. Also, residential architectural designs have improved to affect, improve, and promote the well-being and health of residential inhabitants. For instance, residential architectural designs now incorporate more or larger windows to bring in more natural light and also to give residents varying views of nature. Also, residential architectural designs incorporate open space designs to combated the perceived notions of being confined or crowded; whereas, crowding and perceived crowding produces stress.         

What is sustainable development? Why is it important? Provide examples of how architecture has been adapted to promote sustainable development.

           Sustainability refers to finding a balance between economic, social, and environmental sustainability (Steg, 2013). Sustainable development refers to building a well-balanced relationships between these three aspects. This is why sustainable development is important because of its intention to develop this well-balanced relationship. Sustainable development attempts to integrate renewable energy sources, varying building technologies, and alternative building processes to foster sustainable and environmentally friendly development. For instance, architecture now incorporates solar lighting and heating, some aspects of wind power, and alternative means of waste treatment  to conserve energy and and cut back on the use of fossil fuels, that is, to provide better living environments and cause less damage to the environment.   

References

Augustin, S. (2009). Place Advantage: Applied Psychology for Interior Architecture. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

The Effects of Population Density and Noise

          Population density refers to how many individuals are in a particular area. To determine population density, one must divide the population of the area by the size of that particular area. Population density along with noise has varying effects on individuals. As the population density increases, noise pollution will also increase. Territoriality, privacy, and personal space are important concepts in regards to population density. As population density increases territoriality, privacy, and personal space takes on changes that individuals have to address in order to not suffer from the effects of a denser population. Also, in population dense areas such as urban environments, nature affects individuals in particular ways.

Examination of Territoriality, Privacy, and Personal Space

          When discussing the problem of population density, territoriality, privacy, and personal space become increasingly significant concepts.

Territoriality

          The concept of territoriality refers to a set of behaviors that an individual exhibits in relation to his or her physical environment or territory. Territorial behavior is a reflection of individuals’ desires to possess, occupy, and defend territory against intrusion by other individuals (Edney, 1974). In regards to territory, it is an area or areas that an individual has control over for a continual time or for brief moments in time, and even may share with other individuals. Territory helps an individual maintain his or her sense of who he or she is and helps an individual maintain a level of privacy and even personal space (Augustin, 2009).  

Privacy

          The concept of privacy refers to individuals’ need or feelings of complete loneliness or isolation from other individuals. Also, two or more individuals of a particular group may desire a level of privacy from other individuals who are not a member of the group; therefore, being isolated from non-group members. Augustin (2009), “privacy is a fundamental human need, so place design must permit people to regulate access to themselves in the ways they have been taught by their national culture” (p. 119). The level of privacy that an individual requires depends on that individual and may depend on his or her culture. Individuals in more so independence-minded cultures, more highly value privacy, while individuals in more so interdependent cultures require less privacy than individuals in independence-oriented cultures (Augustin, 2009).

          Also, individuals use varying measures to ensure privacy such as exhibiting territorial behavior and using physical barriers to ensure that other individuals observe their personal space to maintain and achieve desired privacy.    

Personal Space

          The concept of personal space refers to a three-dimensional bubble or zone that surrounds an individual and moves with that individual (Augustin, 2009). Such a bubble or zone is off limits to other individuals unless permission is given to enter one’s personal space. An individual determines the size of his or her own personal space. An individual’s gender and body type is a determinate of the size of his or her personal space. For instance, women usually require less personal space than men who require more personal space. In regards to body type, taller individuals usually require more personal space than shorter individuals, and children usually require less personal space than adults. Culture may also determine personal space size. Certain cultures, such as those primarily from northerly climates have larger personal space zones than certain cultures from southerly climates (Augustin, 2009).

          Usually, individuals require less personal space when other individuals are in proximity to them, such as with family members, intimate partners, or friends. On the other hand, individuals may require more personal space in the presence of other unknown individuals or with disliked individuals. Individuals’ preferred size of personal space zones varies from individual to individual and from one culture to culture. 

Importance of Territoriality, Privacy, and Personal Space

          As the population becomes dense, territoriality, privacy, and personal space are continually more important concepts. Population density can affect individuals and contributes to the psychological effects of crowding. Crowding occurs when population becomes too dense; therefore, individuals suffer when crowding occurs. Crowding disrupts an individual’s perception of maintaining territory, privacy, and personal space. As a result, individuals may suffer from stress and the decline of psychological health and well-being. As a result of population becoming more dense individuals may exhibit more territorial behavior because they may have a perception of crowding and it may be increasingly harder to possess, occupy, and defend territory or territories, and to achieve and maintain a sense of privacy, and personal space.     

Effect Nature has on Individuals Living in Urban Environments

          A nature in urban environments such as gardens, zoos, and parks has positive effects on individuals and is beneficial for these individuals. Gardens, zoos, and parks in urban environments can encourage and ensure that individuals in those types of environments will have a relationship with nature. Also, gardens, zoos, and parks can help individuals become more satisfied and enthusiastic about themselves, their lives, and with their environments, and feel less frustrated with their environment, and improves physical and psychological health. Nature has a significant psychological influence on individuals in urban environments. Nature in urban environments also provides relaxation and restoration for individuals. Views of nature and being able to interact with nature can restore an individual’s stocks of mental energy (Augustin, 2009). Augustin (2009), “being able to look out over nature is not only important for adults; children as young as one also benefit from taking a look out over something green” (p. 174).

The Concept of Noise and the Effect it has on Individuals

          The concept of noise refers to unwanted sound that comes from inside or outside of structures and is undesirable for individuals. When individuals try to make sense of noise it can become distracting. Irregular noise or noises can also be disturbing because individuals try to find patterns in such noises. Noise can directly influence an individual’s levels of stress and can be detrimental to levels of stress, and more noise leads to more stress (Augustin, 2009). Noise can also make individuals feel tense. Noise is also determinately to health. Augustin (2009), “noise in educational environments can influence students’ health and has been linked to higher blood pressure in students” (p. 224). Individuals are unable to relax when hearing unpredictable noises because the rhythms of an individual’s heart and breathing cannot mimic these unpredictable noises (Augustin, 2009).

          However, annoying noises can be bearable for individuals when individuals can predict the patterns of noises. Minimizing noise and noises that are distracting or annoying is important for individuals; that is, for reducing stress and improving health. When annoying noises are predictable individuals are able to develop coping strategies to reduce noises.

 Strategies used to Reduce Noise

          Deterring and reducing noise pollution is not an easy task for individuals. There are no possible means of completely avoiding noise pollution in workplace or living environments. However, when the noise becomes annoying for individuals then they can reduce the effects of the noise in workplace or living environment by using particular coping strategies. What occurs with noise is that individuals are unable to concentrate when sounds are unpredictable because they divert mental processing power to anticipate what occurs next with noise (Augustin, 2009). One strategy to use in workplace and living environments is to rearrange space. The physical form of spaces can influence how individuals experience sound. Therefore, by rearranging space, that is, to rearrange furniture in workplace and living environments, individuals are able to deflect sound waves or noise from bouncing around in random directions.

          Thereby, redirecting or deflecting noise in other directions away from the ear such as toward the ceiling, which reduces the effect noise, has on individuals. Another strategy individuals can use to reduce noise in workplace and living environments is to incorporate soft surfaces. When only rough surfaces are in spaces sound waves or noise also bounce around in random directions. By incorporating soft surfaces such as curtains, suspended ceilings, carpeting, and upholstery into workplace and living environments individuals are able to redirect sound waves toward floors, ceilings, and in other directions besides toward individuals’ ears (Augustin, 2009).  

Conclusion

          When population becomes dense, territoriality, privacy, and personal space are concepts that become increasingly significant in environments. In urban environments, nature such as gardens, parks, and zoos have significant positive effects on individuals in these environments. Noise is an important concept that can have negative effects on individuals when populations become dense. When this occurs individuals can incorporate coping strategies such as rearrange space and incorporating softer surfaces into workplace and living environments to redirect the effects of noise.  

Reference

Augustin, S. (2009). Place Advantage: Applied Psychology for Interior Architecture. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Edney, J. J. (1974). Human territoriality. Psychological Bulletin, 81(12), 959-975. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/h0037444

What is the difference between the physical state of high density and the psychological experience of crowding?

          Density refers to physical area currently available to individuals. The physical state of high density refers to the state of which individuals live near each other in a particular space or area. Crowding refers to the psychological feeling of not possessing adequate available space. Crowding can affect human performance and well-being (Steg, 2013). Crowding often results in negative feelings. High density is a necessity of crowding, however high density will not always result in the negative feelings of crowding. For example, an individual may not perceive high density at a social event as crowding but an individual who invites a couple of individuals into his or her home may feel crowded when density is low.  

What is the difference between human and animal territorial behavior? Please include examples in your response.

          Territorial behavior refers to a means of behavior used to defend territory. Human and nonhuman animals both mark their territories but by different means. Human animals may mark their territory by property lines or with fences, while nonhuman animals mark their territory by using bodily fluids. Both human animals and nonhuman animals may behave in an aggressive manner to protect their territory. However, human animals are the only animals that openly invite others into their territory, while nonhuman animals constantly defend their territory against other animals. Nonhuman animals may invade another animal's territory but usually do not occupy that territory for extended periods of time; however, human animals will invade another's territory and may occupy that territory for extended periods of time. For instance, nonhuman animals may invade another animal’s territory in pursuit of food, while human animals may invade another human's territory and may occupy that territory for extended periods of time such as during times of warfare.

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

How does temperature affect you? Have you ever considered weather to be a stressor in your life? Why or why not?

          Temperature is a component of one's sensory experience; therefore, temperature can either be too cold or too hot and cause stress. Individuals vary in regards to what they deem as acceptable or unacceptable and what is stressful or not stressful; therefore, a particular temperature may cause stress for one individual but may not cause stress for another individual. This is because one individual may find that sensory experience to be acceptable, while another individual does not find it to be acceptable (Augustin, 2009).

          I have and still do dislike certain types of weather, such as cold weather but I have never considered weather to be a stressor in my life because the majority of my life has been spent in warmer year round climates until relocating to North Carolina. However, after reading the material in this course and other psychology courses, I have an understanding of how weather can be a stressor in my life. Therefore, winter weather is a stressor in my life.      

How do other aspects of weather, such as wind and sunlight, affect you?

          Other aspects of weather, such as wind and sunlight can cause stress as well. Wind and sunlight are still components of an individual's sensory experiences; therefore, an individual may find a particular amount of wind speed and a particular amount of sunlight as stressful, while another individual might find these same sensory experiences as acceptable.      

References

Augustin, S. (2009). Place Advantage: Applied Psychology for Interior Architecture. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Environmental Risk Perception Paper

          Steg (2013), “environmental changes, pollution and technologies bear the possibility of harmful and long-lasting consequences for both humans and nature” (p. 16). These types of changes are environmental risks. Every individual differs from another individual by the means in which they perceive such risks, and how they believe these risks affect them. Therefore, an individual’s beliefs concerning an environmental risk may influence his or her risk perceptions. Risk perceptions are the subjective judgments concerning the risk associated with a certain technology, event, or activity (Steg, 2013). Also, different aspects such as values, ethics, and morals may influence perceived environmental risk. Environmental risks can also affect individuals’ emotionally and can stimulate unwanted stress, in regard to the effects of these risks on humans and nature.
          One such environmental risk in particular is global warming; which occurs when the average temperature of the Earth’s oceans and atmosphere gradually increases. The increase in temperatures, in the oceans and atmosphere are permanent temperature changes that are a result of releasing vast amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere from the continual use of fossil fuels. These possess a risk to the well-being of humans and nature alike. There are not any means of reversing the effects of global warming; however, said effects can decrease.

Summary of Articles

          Two articles of interest address the environmental risk known as global warming; however, these articles take differing stances on this issue and have dissimilar views regarding this environmental risk. The article “Global Warming” takes a stand in support of the issue of global warming; that is, it details how this environmental risk is a threat to humans and nature alike. This article also addresses related environmental stressors that are a result of the environmental risk of global warming. The article “Global Warming: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the Efficient” takes a stand in belief of global warming as well; however, it mainly details the possible benefits of the issue of global warming. That is, it details how this environmental risk is a not a particular threat to humans and nature, but a possible benefit for both. The article addresses how the environmental risk of global warming is rather a benefit for certain areas of the world and the related environmental stressors associated with this environmental risk will become less stressing because of a warming climate.

Comparing and Contrasting Risk Perceptions

          In the article “Global Warming,” risk perceptions take a valued, ethical or moral position in regard to global warming. In this article risk perceptions associated with global warming lean toward concerns of not only gradual climbs in average temperatures, but also toward the intensity and frequency of excessive climatic events that may occur (Patz, 2004). While, in the article “Global Warming: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the Efficient,” risk perceptions are indeed subjective at best. As a result of this article not necessarily determining global warming as intrinsically bad or as an environmental risk, but more so as an inevitable occurrence with minimal risk to humans. In this article, global warming is rather an occurrence that can produce ideal living and warmer weather conditions for certain areas of the world. This article determines that warmer weather will result in decreased use of energy consumptions because of such warmer weather; therefore, leading to decreased use and need of fossil fuels.
          Also, this article views the increased release of CO2 in the atmosphere along with warmer weather as a benefit for fostering plant growth; which creates a greener planet. This article seems to overestimate the small frequencies and underestimate the larger frequencies in regards to the effects of global warming on the environment. The risk perceptions of these two articles have do not share any forms of comparison and are rather contradictory of one another.  

Environmental Stressors Related to the Environmental Risk

          Environmental stressors are physical characteristics of individuals' environments that cause stress for them (Steg, 2013). Environmental stressors can either be chronic or acute. When environmental stressors are chronic, such stressors are more consequential for individuals. This occurs when individuals lack the ability to end or escape from environmental stressors. In the article “Global Warming,” it acknowledges that several environmental stressors occur as a result of global warming. The article “Global Warming: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the Efficient,” does acknowledge that global warming occurs but undermines the environmental stressors related to this environmental risk. Moore (2008), “global climate change has been portrayed largely as an unmitigated catastrophe for humans and the environment but, in reality, the topic is more nuanced” (p. 1).
          However, there are numerous environmental stressors related to global warming. Such environmental stressors include occurrences and extensions of weather anomalies such as increasingly warm temperatures, heat waves, severe droughts, floods, and storms. Other environmental stressors include pollution effects such as smog, and extensions of fog formations. These are several examples of environmental stressors related to global warming; however, as time passes by more environmental stressors may develop in relation to the long-term effects of global warming. Also, these environmental stressors pose risks to and are detrimental to individuals’ physical and psychological well-being.

Conclusion

          Steg (2013), “risk perception refers to people’s subjective judgment about the risk that is associated with some activity, event or technology” (p. 17). I find myself to be an individual rather low on traditional values and high on altruism; therefore, I indeed have a tendency to perceive a global environmental risk, such as global warming (Steg, 2013). This is because my risk perception in regard to global warming is driven by my values and moral or ethical positions (Steg, 2013). Many aspects of the environment I indeed believe have an inherent value and deserve a level of respect because the environment, especially the natural environment provides life and fosters life inherently. I am an individual that will not trade-off the value the environment for any price, and behaviors that foster global warming indeed lead to negative affective reactions for me. In regard to my moral and ethical positions, I do not deem a behavior that fosters global warming as either ethically or morally correct. Global warming is indeed an environmental risk that sparks a risk perception because the behaviors that foster such an environmental risk devalue the environment and are unethical and immoral.

References

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.
Patz, J. (2004). Global warming. BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), 328(7451), 1269-1270.
Moore, T. (2008). Global warming. The good, the bad, the ugly and the efficient. EMBO Reports, 9 Suppl 1S41-S45. doi:10.1038/embor.2008.53

Can your inner thoughts exasperate the effects of the weather and other environmental stressors?

          Yes, I do believe that inner thoughts can exasperate the effects of the weather and other environmental stressors. Specifically, negative inner thoughts can exasperate the effects of environmental stressors. When one suffers from stress, as a result of environmental conditions it can trigger negative inner thoughts of frustration and nervousness; which, results in anxiety. As a result, negative inner thoughts exasperate the effects of environmental stressors. Also, environmental stressors accelerate negative inner thoughts contributing to anxiety, which in turn exasperate the effects of environmental stressors. When one is able to moderate the effects of environmental stressors, then he or she will be able to decrease their negative thoughts and anxiety and decrease exasperating the effects of environmental stressors.

Is stress created by your habitual thoughts? If so, can be diminish the amount of stress that we deal with everyday? How would you present this concept to a client and what would be your treatment plan following this premise?

          Dr. Albert Ellis was an influential thinker and created the rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) (Ellis, 2006). His work contributed to how individuals can moderate stress. Yes, stress is indeed created by habitual thoughts, and the stress that one currently suffers from may be a result of habitual patterns of thought that are a result of previous experiences. One's perceptions are one of the main reasons individuals suffer from stress; therefore, changing past, present, and future perceptions can alleviate some stress; however, it is impossible to eliminate stress completely. One must can his or her habitual reactions to stress by changing their perceptions; which, results in reducing stress. Ultimately, one will see a diminishment of everyday stress.    
           As for presenting the concept to a client; I would first provide and understanding of stress, habitual thoughts, and perceptions. Then I would explain how habitual thoughts and past, present, and future perceptions contribute to the occurrence of certain forms of stress. My treatment plan be or follow along the lines of Dr. Ellis' REBT, and have a client implement stress reducing techniques. This of course all may change as I continue my study of psychology and become a psychologist myself.  

References

Torburn, L. (2008). Stop the Stress Habit: Change Your Perceptions and Improve Your Health. Bloomington, ID: iUniverse.
Ellis, A. (2006). Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy And the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Training of Jon Kabat-Zinn. Journal of Rational - Emotive & Cognitive - Behavior Therapy, 24(1), 63-78. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10942-006-0024-3

Can the individual influence their environment?

          Yes, an individual can influence his or her environment. An individual and their environment interact in a dynamic way and are related in a reciprocal way (Steg, 2013). Therefore, the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between an individual and their environment is that one enables the environment to influence an individual and enables an individual to influence their environment. The actions or behaviors of the environment influence an individual and the actions or behaviors of an individual influence their environment. An individual has the ability to influence the environment, that is, to influence environmental behavior by encouraging pro-environmental behavior (Steg, 2013). In regards to pro-environmental behavior, this is a means to influence positive behaviors in the environment to protect or improve it by minimizing negative impacts as the results of the actions of individuals. For instance, a pro-environmental behavior such as recycling is less expensive, creates less waste, and is healthier for the environment and has a beneficial environmental impact. However, not recycling can cause damage to the environment and in turn can cause harm to an individual and decrease that individual's well-being. Actions deemed as pro-environmental behavior influence the environment and in turn can influence the well-being of an individual.

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Environmental psychology

Definition of the Discipline

          As a discipline within psychology, environmental psychology studies the interplay between the individual and his or her natural and built environment. Essentially, environmental psychology is an examination of the environment’s influence on well-being, behavior. Also, it examines the experiences of humans, and individuals’ influence on the environment; in regards to factors that influence environmental behavior and means of encouraging behavior that is pro-environmental (Steg, 2013). The research methods (questionnaire studies, laboratory experiments, simulation studies, field studies and case studies) used by environmental psychology and the important research it provides bring a comprehensive understanding of how the environment influences and affects individuals and how individuals influence and affect their environment.

Important Milestone or Influence in the Development of Environmental Psychology

          As for the influence in the development of environmental psychology, there are two influences that need consideration. These two important influences in the development of environmental psychology were psychologist Egon Brunswik and Kurt Lewin. Considered as the founding fathers of environmental psychology, Brunswik and Lewin provided significant ideas regarding the study of human behaviors not in artificial environments but real-life settings and interactions between psychological processes and physical environment (Steg, 2013). However, their work is not significantly empirical by today’s standards in environmental psychology. In regards as to the reasoning behind why Brunswik and Lewin are important influences in the development of environmental psychology, it is because their combined ideas were influential for research that occurred later regarding the interactions between humans and the environment.

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

What is stress? How can stress be moderated?

          When an individual is incapable of meeting the demands set forth by suboptimal environmental conditions, then stress results. This imbalance that occurs between individuals' response capabilities and environmental demands is stress (Steg, 2013).Stress has a recognized and accepted link to ailing health that occurs by means of alteration of one's immune system, alterations of inflammatory responses, increased cardiovascular responses, and psychological problems; in particular, deteriorated mental health (Steg, 2013). In one aspect stress can be detrimental to one's physical and psychological well-being, but in another aspect every type of stress is not detrimental to one's physical and psychological well-being and is a necessity of daily functioning or it can help compel one to action.

          To moderate stress one must first become aware of what the cause of his or her stress is or what distresses them. Then one must determine what he or she can change about his or her stressors by either eliminating or avoiding them, or by reducing the intensity of his or her emotional reactions to stress. Then one can moderate his or her physical reactions to such stress. One can also chose an activity to help moderate stress by either exercising, jogging, walking, or by any other means one deems fit.         

What are examples of life stressors? In what ways do individuals differ in their appraisal and ability to cope with life stressors? Do certain personality traits serve to buffer individuals against stressors and stress? Why or why not?

          Life stressors are events that occur in life that cause distress. Examples of stressors are another's death, issues that occur at work, with friends, family, and with an intimate partner. Other examples are pregnancy, personal injury or illness, and financial problems.

          Each individual's value of life stressors and ability to cope with life stressors is unique to him or her and can differ from how another individual values or copes with such stress. Therefore, each individual differs by the means of which they cope with life stressors as a result of his or her personality traits.

          Yes, I believe that certain personality types, such as hardiness, sense of humor, and procrastination serve to buffer individuals against stressors and stress. The reason why is because personality traits enhance one's abilities to cope with stressors and stress.

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Do you believe that individuals are affected by their environment in different ways? If so, how? If not, why not?

          Yes, I do believe that individuals are affected by their environment in different ways. Human-beings constantly interact with the environment; therefore, it is inevitable to not be affected by the environment because of human and environmental interactions. The environment can affect everything about an individual in regards to who an individual is (development), who that individual will develop into, and what that individual does. The environment affects an individual's development, well-being, behavior, perceptions, experiences, and psychological processes as well (Steg, 2013). Therefore, every individual is either affected or influenced by means that are either positive or negative because his or her environment. An individual's environment can foster in positive ways one's development, well-being, behavior, perceptions, experiences, and psychological processes, but also in negative ways because of environmental stressors. Environmental stressors are the physical characteristics of one's environment that produce stress for an individual (Steg, 2013). Environmental stressors are either acute or chronic, and when they are chronic they are more consequential for an individual. This occurs because an individual lacks a complete ability to extinguish or escape such stressors (Steg, 2013). Also, every individual experiences his or her environment and even the same environment as another individual differently than another individual because every individual is different from another individual; therefore, each individual will be affected in different ways because of their environment.

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.

Which research method do you believe would be most effective in attempting to obtain information on people’s environmental awareness? Explain your answer.

          In environmental psychology there are five main effective environmental research methods used for attempting to obtain information on individuals' environmental awareness. These five main research methods include questionnaire studies, laboratory experiments, simulation studies, field studies and case studies. Each of these five research methods has its own strengths and weaknesses, and can be used in a particular setting. In regards to the use of these five main research methods, questionnaire studies can be used in environment independent settings, laboratory experiments and simulation studies can be used in artificial settings, and case studies and field studies can be used in real settings (Steg, 2013). The research method that I believe would be most effective in attempting to obtain information on people’s environmental awareness is field studies. Steg (2013), "in order to achieve high external validity without compromising too much on internal validity, many environmental psychologists use field studies" (p. 9). Since environmental psychologist conduct field studies in real-life settings, both they are fairly high in external validity and internal validity (Steg, 2013). Field studies are also replicable; therefore, an environmental psychologist is capable of replicating another's work and findings. The replicability of field studies proves how reliable these types are studies are. With a good balance of external and internal validity and with its reliability I believe the most effective research method to use are field studies.       

Reference

Steg, L. (2013). Environmental psychology: An introduction. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell.