Previous studies on religious importance or other aspects of religiosity tend to associate sociodemographic variables with indicators of religious commitment. Gender, ethnicity and age are frequent associations with religiosity. Door-to-door surveys were conducted about concern on a variety of environmental issues. The six selected neighborhoods were chosen by ethnicity, presence of children, and average household income. In this study, religious importance is considered a significant predictor for individual environmental concern levels. The more frequently respondents worshipped, the more they were interested in environmental issues. The variable of religious denomination was significant for individual levels of environmental concern. Religious denomination appeared to be a weak predictor of environmental behavior. This study found that religious attitude, religious behavior and religious denomination in an African American population was related to levels of environmental concern. Implications of these findings refer to the need for community environmental education programs that incorporate cultural heritage, ethnic values, and spiritual perspectives to make the connection between environmental issues and health status. As we strive for a cleaner and safer environment, it is important to include religious values when encouraging environmental stewardship within African American communities.
Learning Objectives: 1.Participants will be able identify indicators of religious attitude, religious behavior, and religious denomination. 2. Participants will explore the relationship between religiosity and environmental concern within an African American community. 3.Participants will improve their understanding of how environmental and religious issues interact. 4.Participants will learn about coalitions needed for church-based environmental education
Keywords: Religion, Environment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.