The Structural Basis of Differences Between Individuals in Conservation and Human Behaviour: An In- Depth Study

Abstract

Despite increased efforts by non-governmental organizations, universities, and governments to save species in recent decades, several hazards persist, continuing to diminish their populations and even driving them to extinction. The escalating human utilisation of natural resources is primarily responsible for the depletion of biodiversity. Consequently, conservation specialists must investigate the underlying factors that drive human behavior in order to effectively address this issue. Social psychologists studying decision-making recognize the use of mathematical theories to explain human decision-making processes. However, they also acknowledge that individuals do not consistently exhibit financially rational behavior. Instead, personal factors such as attitudes and perceived social pressure can significantly influence decision-making. The researchers are exploring the application of the social-psychological theory of behavior in the contexts of ecological sustainability and natural resource management. Numerous studies mostly focus on general attitudes towards conservation rather than specific attitudes towards conservation-related activities, hence limiting their applicability in formulating interventions aimed at modifying these behavioural patterns. Adopting a narrower definition of the behavior under investigation and examining attitudes within the framework of other social-psychological indications of behavior can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of conservation-relevant behaviours and the development of more effective interventions to influence them. These indicators may include consumer attitudes, the presence of supporting factors, and moral obligation.