Framing Challenges: Psychological and Policy Perspectives in Political Communication

As global environmental challenges escalate, climate communication, crisis communication, and sustainability discourses have become a cornerstone of public discourse. This panel explores innovative frameworks and strategies for addressing these pressing issues through psychological and policy-oriented approaches. The papers in this session investigate how individuals and societies perceive and respond to changes, emphasizing the role of communication in shaping these perceptions.
The discussion will highlight the critical role of governments, institutions, and media in shaping perceptions and crafting narratives that motivate collective action. This includes examining the interplay between communication and psychological factors, such as perceptions of distance, urgency, and personal relevance, in fostering meaningful engagement with climate/sustainability and different challenging issues. Additionally, the panel will consider the broader societal implications of environmental communication, including the role of digital platforms in advocacy and the necessity of equitable access to information. By integrating insights from psychology, communication studies, and policy analysis, this session aims to uncover innovative strategies for mobilizing communities and influencing policymaking.