Environment and Social Psychology

       ISSN: 

2424-8975 (Online)

Journal Abbreviation:

Environ. Soc. Psychol.

Environment and Social Psychology (ESP) is an international open-access academic journal dedicated to publishing highly professional research in all fields related to the relationship between environment and social psychology. All manuscripts are subjected to a rigorous double-blind peer review process, to ensure quality and originality. We are interested in the original research discoveries. This journal also features a wide range of research in ancillary areas relevant to social psychology. ESP publishes original research articles, review articles, editorials, case reports, letters, brief commentaries, perspectives, methods, etc. ESP aims to explore the connections between the environment and human condition, and enhance the environment protection consciousness and behaviors that are crucial to achieve the goals of sustainable development and human development. 

The research topics of ESP include but are not limited to:

  • Environment psychology
      Environmental perception
      Environmental behaviour
      Environmental design
  • Social psychology
      Social perception
      Social Behaviour
      Interpersonal Relationships
  • Environment and mental health
      Mental Health
      Coping mechanisms
      Emotions and the Environment
  • Sustainability and behavioral science
      Sustainable Development
      Behavioural change theory
      Social norms and environmental behaviour
  • Climate psychology
      Psychological impacts of climate change
      Behavioural responses
      Climate education
  • Interdisciplinary research
      Environment and social sciences
      Technology and psychology
      Culture and environment
  • Social Sciences(Health)
  • Developmental and Educational Psychology
      Learning, attention deficit and the environment
      Genderisation, child development and the social environment
  • Neurological and physiological psychology
      Depression and the environment
      Problem Solving and the Social Environment
 

Notice: The ownership of Environment and Social Psychology (ESP) has been transferred from Asia Pacific Academy of Science Pte. Ltd. to Arts and Science Press Pte. Ltd. The new publisher will publish this journal starting from Volume 9, Issue 7 of 2024. Contributors should make submissions to the new journal system (https:/esp.as-pub.com/index.php/esp) from March 25, 2024. Authors of previous submissions can track the publication progress through the original journal system.

Vol. 10 No. 3 (2025): Publishing

Table of Contents

Open Access
Research Articles
by Satrana I. Malik
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract Proficiency in the English language is essential for academic success and career advancement, particularly in multilingual contexts such as the Philippines. This study examines the motivation and engagement levels of public junior high school students in Sulu in learning English, focusing on cognitive and social engagement. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, data were collected from 200 students through survey questionnaires. The findings indicate that students generally exhibit moderate to high levels of motivation and engagement, with cognitive engagement being strongly associated with motivation. A significant relationship between cognitive and social engagement was also observed, emphasizing the role of peer interactions and collaborative learning in language acquisition. Statistical analyses revealed a strong positive correlation between motivation and engagement, demonstrating that highly motivated students are more actively involved in English learning. These results highlight the need for instructional strategies that enhance both motivation and engagement to improve language proficiency. The study underscores the importance of fostering supportive learning environments, implementing culturally responsive teaching methods, and developing targeted interventions that consider demographic factors influencing language learning outcomes.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Magna Anissa A. Hayudini, Shilwina Adjid Baiting, Grace A. Akalal, Rodin M. Paspasan, Sudimar D. Supian, Angela Joy Alegado Jimpoy, Jonel T. Alibasa, Fahra B. Sahibad, Nurkintam Ukang-Amirul, Alnahar A. Amirul
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract In today’s digital era, governments worldwide are transitioning towards ICT-integrated systems to enhance public service efficiency. However, despite its numerous benefits, the adoption of ICT among government administrators remains inconsistent due to resistance to change, lack of self-efficacy, and inadequate motivation. This study is driven by the urgent need to identify and implement strategies that will foster a proactive appreciation and adoption of ICT-based services. Understanding the psychological factors—mindset shift and self-efficacy—will enable the formulation of policies that enhance digital readiness and long-term engagement with ICT in government operations. The research involved interviews with 30 government leaders directly involved in ICT integration efforts in the Philippines, aiming to understand their perspectives, motivations, and challenges in adopting these technologies. The study is guided by the following research questions: 1.) What are the key psychological and organizational barriers preventing government administrators from adopting ICT in their services? 2.) What strategic interventions can effectively facilitate a mindset shift among government administrators towards ICT adoption? 3.) How can government institutions sustain long-term behavioral and attitudinal changes to ensure continuous ICT integration in public service delivery? Using a qualitative case study approach, the research explores the complex interplay of security concerns, financial constraints, resistance to change, and the vital role of tangible success stories in fostering ICT appreciation. The findings highlight the need for a holistic approach that addresses both psychological and organizational barriers to ICT integration. The research emphasizes the importance of inclusive consultation, continuous feedback mechanisms, and targeted training programs to empower administrators and build their confidence in leveraging ICT for effective governance. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for government support through financial allocation, capacity building initiatives, and clear policy frameworks that encourage ICT integration, ultimately fostering a digitally adaptive and inclusive governance system.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Yuhong Dang, Dr. Siegfried M. Erorita
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract This research study has been conducted to explore the direct impacts of perceived risk on buying intentions for AI-enabled vehicles, with strategic attention given to the mediating effect of trust. This research uses a rigorously designed online survey of 587 respondents to find the relationship between main variables using structural equation modeling. The results are that the perceived risk significantly negatively influences purchase intention both directly, with a β of -0.342 and p < 0.001, and indirectly via trust at 39.4% of the whole effect. While perceived risk had a strong negative effect, trust had a strong positive effect on purchase intention, β = 0.487, p < 0.001, thus moderating the relationship between perceived risk and purchase intention. It will help extend the theoretical understanding of consumer behavior in AI-enabled markets and also provide practical implications for the manufacturer and marketer of an autonomous vehicle. Results suggest that, along with the strategy of decreasing risks, an organization must engage in the initiatives of building up trust for improving consumer acceptance of the technology.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Mei Zhang
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract Under the background of implementing "carbon peak and carbon neutrality" targets, the ESG performance of enterprises has attracted the attention from the public. This study selects Chinese listed companies from 2010 to 2019 as samples, constructs an ESG evaluation system using the entropy method and AHP method, and investigates the impact of the legal environment on corporate ESG performance and the moderating role of social trust through multiple regression models. The study finds that a well-developed legal environment promotes corporate ESG performance, and the synergistic effect of social trust and the legal environment significantly enhances ESG performance. Further research reveals that the positive effect of the legal system on corporate ESG performance is stronger in resource-based cities and economically underdeveloped regions. Industry heterogeneity analysis further shows that companies in resource-based and traditional heavy industries experience more significant improvements in ESG performance under the influence of the legal environment. The findings enrich the research on the factors influencing corporate ESG performance and provide strategic guidance for promoting corporate sustainable development.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Zhihua Deng
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract This research takes a mixed methods approach alongside employing a cultural lens to examine the intricate connection between cultural identity and psychological adjustment of international students studying at international universities. The study analyzes employing quantitative technique 300 responses of structured survey and qualitative technique of semi structured interview conducted to 20 students of Chinese language on what formulates cultural identity and the consequences of psychological adaption. It was also found that language ability (β = 0.452, p < 0.001) and available support from peers/buddies (β = 0.386, p < 0.001) are significant positive contributors of psychological adaptation while (β = -0.325, p < 0.001) academic stresses and (β = -0.298, p < 0.001) cultural differences are negative influences to the adaptation skills. There is a strong linkage between the integration of host society and the sociocultural adjustment indicating a strong dependence (r = 0.58, p < 0.01) on the development of separated bicultural identity. The differences by areas show that students from East Asia get better adaption (M = 3.9, SD = 0.14) as compared to students from Europe (M = 3.0, SD = 0.17), thus proving that closeness to the originating culture aids in adaption to a better extent. Qualitative results also bring out in detail the complexities of identity construction amidst adaptation and the pivotal role language bears on one’s mental health. The research builds upon the already established acculturation dimensions by incorporating them in a fresh perspective on Chinese language learning while also offering meaningful recommendations to the educational sector in formulating effective policies. Such insights highlight the importance of language clinics which not only incorporate the maintenance of aspects of a student’s cultural such as identity in the provision of adequate care but also promote the student’s wellbeing in their integration into Chinese academic contexts.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Mujie Song
2025,10(3);    23 Views
Abstract The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is propelling the digital transformation of the accounting industry, and accordingly, the professional roles and skill requirements of accounting personnel are changing. Based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Task-Technology Fit (TTF) theory, this study constructs an AI empowerment framework that includes technology usefulness, ease of use, and task fit, and introduces self-efficacy and professional identity as mediator variables to examine the impact of AI empowerment on accountants' willingness to transition. The study employs the questionnaire survey method to collect data from 400 accounting personnel, and conducts empirical tests through regression analysis and mediating effect analysis. The research findings indicate that the task matching degree has the most significant influence on the transformation willingness (β = 0.402, p < 0.001), followed by technical usefulness (β = 0.211, p < 0.001), while the influence of the ease of use of technology is relatively weaker (β = 0.114, p < 0.05). Both self-efficacy and professional identity play significant mediating roles in the path of technical usefulness. However, in the path of the ease of use of technology, only the mediating effect of professional identity is significant (β = 0.0456, p < 0.05). In addition, the task matching degree can indirectly affect the transformation willingness through the chain mediating path of "self-efficacy → professional identity" (β = 0.0239, p < 0.05). This study expands the application of the TAM and TTF theories in the research on the transformation of the accounting industry, and emphasizes the crucial roles of technology matching degree, self-efficacy, and professional identity in the context of AI enablement. Enterprises should optimize technology adaptability, strengthen skill training, and shape professional identity to enhance the transformation willingness and practical capabilities of accounting personnel.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Hanyi Zhang
2025,10(3);    23 Views
Abstract Budgeting is a fundamental tool in financial management, yet its psychological impact on financial decision-makers remains underexplored. This study investigates the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects of budgeting on individuals responsible for financial decisions in corporate and personal contexts. The research highlights how budgeting can induce stress, trigger cognitive biases such as anchoring and loss aversion, and influence emotional well-being, often leading to suboptimal decision-making. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with financial managers and planners, the study identifies key psychological challenges in the budgeting process. Results reveal that stringent budgeting environments increase decision fatigue and stress levels, whereas user-centric and psychologically adaptive budgeting systems can mitigate these effects. Furthermore, incorporating behavioral finance principles into comprehensive budget management systems (CBMS) significantly improves decision-making efficiency, reduces emotional strain, and fosters a positive attitude toward financial planning. The findings underscore the need for integrating psychological considerations into CBMS design, such as stress reduction tools, cognitive bias alerts, and motivational feedback mechanisms. This approach not only supports financial decision-makers but also enhances overall financial management outcomes. Future research should explore long-term psychological adaptations to advanced budgeting tools and their role in promoting financial resilience.
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Open Access
Research Articles
by Marry Ann A. Samson, Lorna B. Carpio, Shirley Nolledo, Sandra Covarrubias
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract This qualitative study explored community members' willingness and cooperative participation in nursing student-led health interventions. Data from semi-structured interviews with 20 participants revealed that affordability, early disease detection, and convenient access were key motivators for engagement. However, concerns about privacy, fear of negative diagnoses, and time constraints presented significant barriers. Importantly, community members played a crucial role in promoting participation through peer influence and active collaboration with students. These findings highlight the need for future interventions to address identified barriers through improved communication, flexible scheduling, culturally sensitive approaches, and consistent program availability to maximize community engagement and improve health outcomes.
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Open Access
Review Articles
by Zhou Wei, Zulkarnain Bin Hazim, Asniza Hamimi Abdul Tharim
2025,10(3);    15 Views
Abstract China, with a population of 1.42 billion, has 10 million individuals with autism, including over 2 million children. The increasing prevalence of autism, coupled with a 40-year lag in awareness and research compared to developed nations, has led to significant challenges in providing effective interventions. Although private rehabilitation institutions have proliferated, 90% being privately operated, the quality of these centers varies greatly, often relying on parents and educators without standardized practices. Poorly designed rehabilitation environments may hinder or worsen therapeutic outcomes This study examines autism rehabilitation spaces in Guangzhou, Nanchang, Jiangxi and Beijing using a case study approach, incorporating methods such as observations and interviews. It identifies key principles for designing functional, modular, and structured spaces that cater to the sensory needs of autistic children, emphasizing natural rehabilitation and simulated community scenarios. The research integrates modern design trends and technological advancements to propose a scientifically sound framework for creating autism rehabilitation spaces in China. This framework supports therapy, learning, and societal integration while addressing the unique spatial needs of older autistic children. By bridging the gap between China's practices and international standards, this study contributes to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education and equality, offering a replicable model for inclusive and impactful rehabilitation design.
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Open Access
Review Articles
by Mengtian Lu, Wahiza Binti Abdul Wahid, Amer Shakir Zainol, Li Aimin
2025,10(3);    0 Views
Abstract The development of museum cultural and creative industries (MCCIs), defined as economic activities integrating cultural heritage with creative product design, has become integral to museum progress under the Chinese government's advocacy and public attention. This study integrates social identity theory[1] and value-belief-norm theory[2] to investigate how museum souvenirs in Northwest China mediate cultural identity and pro-environmental behaviors. Through comparative analysis, focusing on the Ningxia Museum, this research explores the cultural and innovative development of provincial museums in China's Shaanxi, Gansu, and Ningxia provinces. Using grounded theory and expert interviews, supplemented by visitor surveys measuring cultural identity levels (α = 0.82), the study reveals that while facing challenges like high costs and insufficient competitiveness, the key to MCCIs’ growth lies in better reflecting museums' social service functions and enhancing visitors’ emotional connections to regional heritage. The study proposes the CCPEN development strategy (Cultural Connection, Policy Support, Product Innovation, Education, and Narrative Integration), which prioritizes embedding sustainability narratives into product design to align with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). These findings offer actionable insights for museums globally, particularly in underdeveloped regions, to leverage cultural assets for fostering sustainability and identity.
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Open Access
Review Articles
by Yasser Fakri Mustafa, Wejdan Al-Shakarchi
2025,10(3);    14 Views
Abstract Mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments, have become increasingly prevalent in modern society, demanding innovative and effective treatment options. While conventional pharmacotherapy remains the cornerstone of psychiatric treatment, its limitations—ranging from side effects to resistance—have fueled the search for novel therapeutic agents. Coumarins, a group of naturally occurring phenolic compounds, have become excellent candidates for this search because they have many biological functions. This review looks at the possibility of coumarins as neuroactive compounds that can change important pathways that could link to mental disorders. Coumarins have powerful antidepressants, anxiety-relieving, and brain-boosting effects because they can change neurotransmitter systems, especially serotoninergic, dopaminergic, and GABAergic pathways. Their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties also make them potentially useful as medicines, since they can help with the underlying pathophysiology of mental health conditions. Beyond their pharmacodynamic properties, coumarins also present advantages in terms of bioavailability and safety, making them attractive candidates for future drug development. Despite promising preclinical and early clinical findings, the transition from laboratory to therapeutic application remains an unexplored area. Challenges such as dose optimization, formulation strategies, and clinical validation require further exploration. Finally, this review integrates phytochemistry, neuroscience, and psychopharmacology to discuss coumarins, a class of naturally occurring neurotherapeutics with limited research. As more research is done to find out what all coumarins can do, they may change the way psychiatric treatments are done by providing a natural, multi-target approach to mental health in a time when mental distress is on the rise.
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Announcements

Announcement about Artificial Intelligence in Academic Writing issues

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the use of AI tools, such as ChatGPT and other large language models, is becoming increasingly prevalent in research publications. Art and Science Publishing House is dedicated to continuously refining and updating its policies regarding the use of AI tools in academic writing. In alignment with COPE’s position statement on AI tools, we hereby outline the following guidelines:  

Authorship and Accountability 

AI tools cannot be listed as authors or co-authors of a manuscript. This is because AI tools cannot take responsibility for the content of a submission, nor do they possess the ability to manage copyright and licensing agreements.  

Transparency in Disclosure 

Authors who use AI tools in the preparation of their manuscripts—whether for writing, data collection, or data analysis—must transparently disclose the use of such tools. This disclosure should include:  

A description of how the AI tool was used.  

The specific AI tool(s) employed.  

This information should be clearly stated in either the "Methods" or "Acknowledgments" section of the manuscript.  

Author Responsibility  

Authors bear full responsibility for the content of their manuscripts, including any portions generated by AI tools or data analyzed using AI during the research process. This ensures the integrity and accuracy of the published work.  

Consequences of Non-Disclosure

Failure to disclose the use of AI tools in a manuscript will result in serious consequences. “Environment and Social Psychology” and Art and Science reserve the right to reject or retract any submission found to have concealed the use of AI tools.  

These guidelines are designed to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and transparency while embracing the potential benefits of AI in research. We encourage authors to use AI tools responsibly and to provide clear and honest reporting of their use.  

For further clarification or questions regarding these policies, please contact our editorial office.  

Posted: 2025-01-20
 

Call for papers

The Environment and Social Psychology (ESP) invites submissions of original research manuscripts in all areas of Environment psychology, including Human-Environment Interactions, Sustainability and Pro-Environmental Behavior, Climate Change Psychology, Restorative Environments, Urban Planning and Design, Place Attachment and Identity, Environmental Stressors and communication. 

Since 2022, ESP has been indexed in SCOPUS, further enhancing its visibility and academic impact. We encourage researchers interested in publishing with ESP to submit their work for consideration.

We look forward to your valuable contributions to the journal.

Posted: 2024-12-23
 

Announcement of New Editor-in-Chief

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Gabriela Topa as the new Editor-in-Chief of Environment and Social Psychology (ESP), effective December 1, 2024. Professor Topa, who is currently affiliated with Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED) in Spain, brings a wealth of expertise in Social and Organizational Psychology to this prestigious role.

Having previously served as an esteemed member of our Editorial Board, Professor Topa has demonstrated exceptional leadership and scholarly acumen. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for ESP as we continue to advance our mission of publishing cutting-edge research in social psychology and related disciplines.

Environment and Social Psychology is a fully open-access journal committed to disseminating high-quality research across a broad spectrum of topics within the field. Under Professor Topa's guidance, we are confident that ESP will reach new heights of academic excellence and influence.

 

The ESP Editorial Team and Publisher

Posted: 2024-12-01
 
More Announcements...