The Impact of an Art and Philosophy-based Intervention on Children's Eco-anxiety
This research aims to understand how climate change affects children's mental well-being. It focuses on children aged 5 to 12 in primary schools across England who might feel concerned or anxious about the environment, often called eco-anxiety. The study compares two different school programmes: one that uses only art activities and another that combines art with philosophical discussions. Researchers want to see if these programmes can help children feel less anxious about climate change, better able to cope with difficult feelings, and more hopeful about the future. They believe that adding philosophy to the art activities might be more effective in supporting children's mental health in this area.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You might have heard or read about climate change, and it's understandable if it makes you or your children feel worried. These worries, sometimes called 'eco-anxiety', can affect children's feelings about the world and their future. This study is designed to see if certain activities in primary schools can help children who are feeling this way.
Researchers are looking at two types of programmes. One programme uses art activities to help children express themselves and understand their feelings. The other programme includes the same art activities but also adds discussions about big ideas and questions, which is what we mean by 'philosophy'. The idea is that talking about these ideas, alongside creating art, might help children understand their worries better and feel more positive.
The main goal is to find out if these programmes can help children feel less worried about climate change. The study will also look at whether children feel more able to handle tough emotions and become more hopeful about what the future holds. Finding good ways to support children's mental health when they're concerned about the environment is really important, and this study hopes to provide some answers that can be used in schools.
Key takeaways
- Looks at how art and philosophy help children with climate change worries.
- Compares an art-only programme with an art and philosophy programme.
- For primary school children (5-12 years old) in England.
- Aims to reduce eco-anxiety and increase hope.
- Involves questionnaires about feelings and well-being.
- No medication, all activities are school-based.
Who may be eligible?
This study is particularly looking for children who are currently attending primary school in England. Specifically, they are inviting students from Year 3 to Year 6 to take part.
This means that if your child is aged between 5 and 12 years old and is enrolled in an English primary school, they would likely be considered for the study.
Children who are not attending primary school, or who fall outside the 5-12 age range, would not be suitable for this particular study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is my child currently in primary school in England?
- Is my child between 5 and 12 years old?
- Is my child in Year 3, 4, 5, or 6?
- Does my child attend one of the participating public primary schools?
What does participation involve?
If your child takes part, they would be involved in a school-based programme over a set period. This would include either art activities or a combination of art and philosophy activities while at school. There wouldn't be any special clinic visits or taking new medicines outside of school hours.
Throughout the study, children would complete some questionnaires. These questionnaires would ask them about their feelings, their worries about climate change, how they cope with difficulties, and their hopes for the future. These are typically done at the beginning, during, and at the end of the programme to see if their feelings have changed. The total time spent on the programme and assessments would be clearly outlined by the school and researchers.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Reach2 Academy, NorthStar AcademyUnverifiedHenhurst Ridge, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is eco-anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is when someone feels worried, sad, or stressed about climate change and environmental problems.
Will my child have to take any medicine?
No, this study does not involve any medication. It's all about art and discussions in school.
What will my child actually do in the study?
Your child will take part in either art-only activities or art activities combined with discussions about big ideas, all within their school.
How long will the study last for my child?
The study involves a school-based programme and some questionnaires. The exact length will be explained by the school, but it will take place over a set period during school hours.
Can my child stop taking part if they want to?
Yes, absolutely. Your child can decide to stop participating at any point, and it won't affect them or their school experience.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.