TITLE:
Environment, Education, and Identity: Psychological Perspectives on Fostering Ecological Values
AUTHORS:
Abílio Lourenço, Sabina Valente, Olímpia Paiva
KEYWORDS:
Environmental Psychology, Ecological Identity, Place Identity, Environmental Education, Educational Psychology, Sustainability
JOURNAL NAME:
Creative Education,
Vol.16 No.12,
December
10,
2025
ABSTRACT: This article presents a theoretical reflection on the interaction between the natural environment, education, and the formation of human identity from the perspectives of Environmental Psychology and Educational Psychology. The central objective is to analyze how natural environments influence the construction of psychological identity and the development of ecological values, indicating theoretical and practical implications for the promotion of sustainable identities. The structure of the text is organized into six chapters. It begins with the multidisciplinary relevance of integrating this area of psychology with studies on ecological identity, followed by the presentation of the foundations of the study of person-environment relationships, including place identity theory and emotional bonds with the natural surroundings. Subsequently, the role of natural elements in the construction of self-perception and emotional well-being is analysed, based on an in-depth theoretical review. The formation of ecological values is then discussed, especially in childhood, focusing on the construction of ecological environmental identity, the individual’s perception of being an essential part of broader ecosystems, and the impact of environmental education on psychological development. The psychology chapter applied to education emphasizes pedagogical strategies, curriculum development, and educational policies that promote and strengthen ecological identity. Recommendations are presented for educators, psychologists, and policymakers, highlighting the importance of education in building environmental values. The article concludes with a synthesis of the main reflections, highlighting theoretical and practical implications and suggesting paths for future research. This work advances understanding of the relationships between human beings and natural environments, offering support to professionals in education, psychology, and related fields interested in the construction of ecological values and the development of sustainable educational practices.