Negative consequences of climate change: from mental health challenges to violent behavior

• In Event: Green Criminology #6- Causes and consequences of environmental crimes

Abstract

It is widely accepted that climate has an impact on mental health. Seasons, light, darkness, and the environmental conditions in which one lives all play a significant role in mood. Climate change, encompassing environmental and meteorological changes, from extreme natural events to gradual climate variations, is leading to direct or indirect consequences, both short-term and long-term, on psycho-physical balance and the facilitation of violent behavior. Analysis of the literature suggests that the impact of climate change on mental health ranges from mild to moderate stress symptoms to psychiatric disorders, particularly anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Furthermore, in accordance with data in the literature, there is emerging evidence of a relationship between climate change, aggressiveness, and violence in a more strictly criminological context: indeed, according to the GAAM model, there is a relationship between rising temperatures and increased irritability, which can elicit more aggressive and even violent responses in those exposed to extreme weather conditions. Analyses are still somewhat unclear and highly heterogeneous, as there are multiple different factors contributing to this scenario. The presentation will provide an overview of the current state of the art regarding the subject matter and possible preventive strategies.

Authors

• Carolina Passani, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele

• Palmina Caruso, University of Milan

• Giulia Moretti, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele

• Guido Travaini, Vita-Salute S. Raffaele University