„Environmental“ or „Eco“ psychology Anthropomorphism – Imbuing non-humans (and nature!) with human- like characteristics Very common phenomenon – Pets – „Mother“ Earth –.... Why does it occur?? – Moralises the target – Need to understand the world (effectance motivation) – Increasing connectedness Dr Pamela Pensini

– Recent research (Tam et al., 2013): – But!! Theory of mind suggests this should be the other way around: – (1) Working title: Connectedness enhances anthropomorphism (not the other way around!) Connectedness to nature Conservation behaviour Anthropomorphism Conservation behaviour Connectedness to nature Dr Pamela Pensini

– (2) Working title: Anthropomorphism isn’t only the humanising of nature, but also the naturalising of humans » And this should depend on how ‘connected’ you are to the group being anthropomorphised. » Low connected to nature people: » High connected to nature people: I am like is like me I am like is like me Dr Pamela Pensini

Dr Pamela Pensini – (3) Working title: Consequences of anthropomorphism » Relationship between anthropomorphism and: Well-being Empathy Environmental Orientations....