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Social influence shapes climate attitudes and action

delete2026-08-04
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PRE
AI
S
Sam Hampton *
B
Briony Latter
L
Lorraine Whitmarsh
DOI:10.1038/s41558-026-02711-zdelete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Social influence, which refers to how individuals and groups shape others’ attitudes and actions, plays a central role in encouraging climate-related behaviours. Here we synthesize insights from climate communication, social psychology and behavioural science to organize current evidence on how influence operates in the context of climate action. We structure this synthesis around four interacting dimensions: who is influencing, where influence is directed, how it occurs and which behaviours are targeted. Across these dimensions, we highlight strengths and gaps in the evidence, including the roles of different actors, modes of influence, and audience characteristics. We identify key priorities for future research, particularly the need to better understand how these elements interact in real-world contexts to support sustained climate action. Individuals and groups shape others’ attitudes and actions through social influence. This Perspective articulates a research agenda of social influence for climate action, synthesizes existing evidence and highlights its practical relevance for designing effective behavioural interventions.

Journal

Nature Climate Change cover
Nature Climate Change
IF:
27.1
Papers:
4.3K
Citations:
5.4W

Organization

C
cardiff university
Scholars:
2.4K
Papers: 1.3K
Citations: 0
U
university of bath
Scholars:
1.1W
Papers: 1.2W
Citations: 13
Cited Papers

Cited Papers

Citing Papers

Citing Papers