Gender Considerations in the Measurement of Climate Change Anxiety: A Cross-Sectional Study in British Columbia, Canada

Globally, the impacts of climate change disproportionately impact women and gender non-binary people (non-binary). Few studies have examined gender differences in climate change anxiety (CCA). Methods: This study examines gender differences in CCA among women, men, and non-binary people living in British Columbia, Canada. Participants were recruited between May and December 2021 using online advertisements. Results: Among 1,260 participants, 21.9% (n = 138/631) of men, 49.5% (n = 257/519) of women, and 54.9% (n = 28/51) of non-binary participants, had moderate/high CCA scores. Men were less likely to report difficulty concentrating (p < 0.001), crying (p < 0.001), or responding to climate change by writing down and analyzing their thoughts (p < 0.001). Demographically adjusted models showed higher CCA among women (aOR = 2.17, 95% CI [1.65-2.85]) and non-binary participants (aOR = 2.70, 95% CI [1.43-5.13]) relative to men. When also adjusting for generalized psychological distress, the elevated effect among women remained significant (aOR = 1.52, 95% CI [1.14-2.04]), while the effect among non-binary participants was no longer significant (aOR = 1.67, 95% CI: [0.86-3.26]). Conclusions: Despite differences in generalized psychological distress, women and non-binary people likely experience a disproportionate burden of CCA. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and potential mental health supports for individuals struggling with CCA across the gender spectrum.