Work

Beyond instrumentalizing “good” and “bad” emotions: Towards a social, multi-affective, contextual approach to emotions in environmental communication

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In this perspective, we argue for a social, multi-affective, contextual approach to emotions in environmental communication, departing from an observation that the field has often considered emotions as tools for change. To complement instrumental approaches, we stress how environmental communication as a scholarly field can benefit from a situated and contextual approach to emotions, embracing a wider perspective on emotions that recognizes that all emotions are valid. Using examples from art, activism, science communication, and cultural and psychological research, we illustrate a multifaceted approach to emotions that includes social aspects of emotions, their plurality, power dimensions, and their role in meaning-making. While research on the use-value of emotions remains important, the complexity of emotions requires varied analytical attention that more fully embraces social, cultural, and situated approaches.

Source: AMBIO

DOI: 10.1007/s13280-026-02444-5

Authors: Carin Graminius, Marlis C. Wullenkord

Institution: Lund University

Language: English

Topic: Climate Change Communication and Perception

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,490

Funders: Stiftelsen för Miljöstrategisk Forskning, Lunds Universitet