Development and validation of the climate change-related reproductive concerns scale (CCRCS)

Introduction

As global concerns about climate change intensify, emerging research reveals a link between climate change anxiety and individuals' decisions regarding parenthood. More people are choosing not to have children due to worries about their carbon footprint or the future implications of climate change on their offspring. This trend emphasizes the critical necessity for a nuanced comprehension of how environmental concerns intertwine with reproductive intentions. To address this imperative, our study develops the Climate Change-related Reproductive Concerns Scale (CCRCS) and evaluates its psychometric properties.

Methods

CCRCS was developed and validated in a sample of 206 Italian adults aged 19 to 51. Ten items were created to evaluate climate change-related reproductive attitudes: 5 anti-reproductive items and 5 pro-reproductive, with their responses reversed for consistency in interpretation.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis revealed a single-factor structure, explaining 63.82 % of the variance, with the scale demonstrating good internal consistency (α = 0.85). The factor structure was replicated, and the scale's validity was examined through correlations with measures of eco-paralysis and climate change anxiety, with significant correlations supporting construct validity. Furthermore, the relationship between climate change-related reproductive concerns and adaptation responses was explored, assessing the impact of framing on CCRCS scores.

Conclusion

The CCRCS provides a reliable and valid measure of these concerns, highlighting the psychological impact of climate change anxiety on reproductive decision-making and emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding in this area.