Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Adults' attitudes refer to the beliefs, opinions, and evaluations that adults hold towards a particular topic or issue. In this case, it relates specifically to their thoughts and feelings about climate change.
Related terms
Cognitive dissonance: The psychological discomfort experienced when individuals hold conflicting beliefs or attitudes. For example, if someone has positive attitudes towards taking action on climate change but fails to do so personally.
Confirmation bias: The tendency for individuals to seek out and favor information that confirms their existing beliefs or attitudes. In the context of climate change, someone with negative attitudes may actively search for evidence that supports their skepticism.
Persuasion techniques: Strategies used to influence others' attitudes or behaviors. Psychologists might study various persuasion techniques (e.g., appeal to emotions, social norms) in relation to changing adults' attitudes towards climate change.