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Motivational Roots of Farmers' Adaptation to Water Scarcity in Iran: Challenges and Solutions
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DOI：10.1016/j.envdev.2026.101521.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
The adoption of adaptation strategies to cope with water scarcity is crucial, given that agriculture is the largest consumer of water resources and farmers’ decisions fundamentally shape the sustainable management of these resources. Strengthening the uptake of such strategies enhances the resilience of the agricultural sector to water shortages and contributes directly to national food security. Building on this premise, the present study sought to clarify the key determinants shaping Iranian farmers’ intentions to adopt water-scarcity adaptation strategies. The research focused on farmers in Dezful County of Khuzestan Province, located in southwestern Iran. To establish a robust conceptual foundation, three complementary theoretical frameworks—Behavioral Reasoning Theory (BRT), the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and Innovation Resistance Theory (IRT)—were integrated into a unified model. The findings showed that this integrated framework accounted for over 70% of the variance in farmers’ intention, demonstrating strong explanatory and predictive capability. Psychological barriers, particularly tradition and mental image, along with farmers’ values, exerted the most substantial influence on intention. Additionally, the model explained 59.5% of the variance in intention and attitude, with values representing the most influential predictor. The results further revealed that functional barriers (use, value, and risk), psychological barriers (tradition and image), and functional benefits (perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use) collectively shaped both intention and attitude toward adopting adaptation strategies. Overall, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners in regions affected by water scarcity.
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