Investigating values and environmental attitudes in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Lisa Detjen (), Sophia Schröder, Magdalena Schwenck, Jana Summa, Jonathan Schreiber and Henrik Wehrden ()
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Lisa Detjen: Leuphana University Lüneburg
Sophia Schröder: Leuphana University Lüneburg
Magdalena Schwenck: Leuphana University Lüneburg
Jana Summa: Leuphana University Lüneburg
Jonathan Schreiber: Leuphana University Lüneburg
Henrik Wehrden: Leuphana University Lüneburg

Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, 2025, vol. 15, issue 4, No 4, 773-787

Abstract: Abstract This research investigates changes in peoples’ values and specifically of environmental attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Building on a longitudinal quantitative design with three survey waves (n = 144, 34, 34) conducted in Lüneburg, Germany, we examined how experiencing the crisis related to the coronavirus may change major values and affect environmental awareness as well as attitudes toward climate change. In addition to a quantitative survey, qualitative interviews were conducted to gain in-depth insights. Over a 5-month period from May to October 2020, a slight shift in individual values was detected, with participants moving away from conservation values (tradition, security) and toward emancipative and postmaterial values (autonomy, self-expression), as well as an increase in a feeling of connectedness to others. Limitations of this study include a high participant dropout over the research period which increases the risk of bias. Yet, this research during times of crisis can aid our understanding of shifts in individual values.

Keywords: COVID-19; Environmental awareness; Mixed methods; Risk; Pandemic; World values survey (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s13412-024-00971-9

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