The hidden inner world of littering

Le résumé fourni par la source

This chapter uses psychoanalytic theory to examine the underpinnings of littering, addressing three core questions regarding why people litter, why litter persists in the environment, and effective strategies to reduce it. It explores how the interplay of societal factors and unconscious processes, stemming from early childhood experiences and continuing into adulthood, contribute to littering behaviours. The chapter delves into the concepts of phantasy and externalizing unwanted parts of the self through littering, viewing it as an expression of internal conflicts. The author utilizes vignettes and personal experiences around the Welsh Harp Reservoir in London to illustrate these dynamics and explore the psychological defences adopted by local and national organizations alike when confronted with the scale of the plastic pollution crisis. The author emphasizes the importance of practically addressing underlying psychological aspects in order to cultivate a “culture of care” and develop an “eco-skin” to promote environmental responsibility. The psychoanalytic lens adopted by the author provides a deeper understanding of the interplay between individual psychology and environmental action that will be of use to students of psychoanalysis, environmental psychology, conservation, and waste management alike.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.