University of Twente Student Theses
Exploring the Role of Storytelling in Fostering Sustainable Behaviour : A Scoping Review
Fastenrath, Louis Jonathan (2024) Exploring the Role of Storytelling in Fostering Sustainable Behaviour : A Scoping Review.
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| Abstract: | Introduction: Climate change, driven by human activities, poses a critical threat to global quality of life, necessitating urgent adoption of sustainable behaviours. Despite increasing awareness, a significant gap remains between knowledge and action. Storytelling, with its capacity to engage individuals emotionally and cognitively, offers a unique approach to bridging this gap. This scoping review investigates the potential of storytelling as a tool to promote sustainable behaviours across diverse populations and contexts. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across Scopus and PsycInfo using keywords related to storytelling, sustainability, and participatory methods. Eight studies were selected based on inclusion criteria that included diverse populations and storytelling interventions. Methods included participatory action research, narrative creation, educational drama, and project-based learning. Results: The review analysed eight studies involving diverse populations, including children in urban areas and farmers in rural communities. Storytelling interventions enhanced emotional awareness, fostered empathy, and promoted sustainable practices. Effective interventions used co-created narratives, educational drama, and project-based learning to make environmental issues tangible. However, challenges such as the need for adequate resources, tailored storylines, and comprehensive training for facilitators were identified. Discussion: Storytelling can bridge the gap between knowledge and action in promoting sustainable behaviours. Effective interventions require careful design, sufficient resources, and trained facilitators. Strengths include the adaptability of interventions and the mixed-methods approach, while limitations such as language barriers and study diversity present challenges. Follow-up measurements are essential to determine the duration of these effects, as most studies assess impacts shortly after interventions. Conclusion: Storytelling is a promising tool for promoting sustainability. Addressing challenges and focusing on future research, including integrating storytelling into curricula, can refine interventions to foster sustainable behaviours and contribute to global sustainability. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/102974 |
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