Energy use, conservation behavior, environmental sociology
As the effects of global climate change become increasingly apparent, many concerned individuals are making efforts to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. One simple and effective method of reducing one's personal carbon footprint is through energy conservation behavior. Studies have shown that occupant behavior can control as much as 50% of residential energy use and that energy use varies widely between residences with the same number of occupants depending on consumption behavior. In light of this, energy conservation behavior is a valuable method of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and curbing the effects of climate change. Motivating people to conserve energy could have profound positive effects on the environment. The following study applies Icek Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior (1991) to energy conservation behavior among college students in the state of Florida. This research tests the hypothesis that pro-environmental attitudes, influence of peers, and a high level of perceived control over behavior have a significant impact on energy conservation behavior.
Master of Arts (M.A.)
College of Sciences
Length of Campus-only Access
Masters Thesis (Open Access)
O'Connell, Lillian, "Energy-use Behavior Among College Students" (2010). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 4433.