Predicting Climate Change Mitigation Behavior in Chinese Families: Effects of Metacognitive Climate Knowledge and Biospheric Values

(1) Background: Climate change mitigation behavior has become a critical area of research, particularly in understanding how family contexts influence such behaviors. However, there is limited empirical comparison of theoretical models explaining this behavior in Chinese families. (2) Purpose: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of three models—the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the Value–Identity–Personal Norm Activation Model (VIP-NAM), and an extended TPB model—in predicting climate change mitigation behavior within Chinese families. (3) Methods: Data were collected from 302 Chinese families in Zhejiang Province. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to perform the data analysis in this study. (4) Results: The extended TPB model, incorporating biospheric values, personal norms, and perceived behavioral control, demonstrated superior explanatory and predictive capabilities compared to the TPB and VIP-NAM models. However, metacognitive climate knowledge did not significantly moderate the intention–behavior relationship. (5) Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of integrating values and norms into theoretical frameworks for better understanding of climate change mitigation behavior. (6) Implications: This study provides insights into designing family-centered interventions and highlights the need to address the intention–behavior gap. Future research should explore additional contextual and cultural factors influencing these behaviors in Chinese families.