The role of psychological capital in shaping climate anxiety across generations

Climate change has transitioned from a distant environmental issue to an immediate psychological reality that profoundly affects how individuals perceive their future and well-being. This study investigates generational differences in climate anxiety and examines the role of psychological capital (PsyCap) as a potential protective resource through the lens of Environmental Identity Theory (EIT). A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 384 participants in Kerala, India, comprising Generation X (33.6%), Millennials (29.9%), and Generation Z (36.5%). Climate anxiety was measured using the Climate Anxiety Scale (Clayton & Karazsia, 2020), and PsyCap was assessed through the PCQ-12, encompassing hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and multiple regression, with effect sizes and confidence intervals reported. Significant generational differences emerged for both cognitive–emotional impairment (F(2,381) = 3.83, p = .023) and functional impairment (F(2,381) = 6.15, p = .002). Gen Z reported significantly higher anxiety levels than Millennials (p = .045, d = − 0.29*) and Gen X (p = .011, d = − 0.35*). Regression analyses indicated that PsyCap and generation jointly predicted cognitive–emotional (R² = 0.04, p = .008) and functional impairments (R² = 0.056, p = .001), with self-efficacy emerging as a significant negatively associated with functional impairment (B = − 0.12, p = .043). Gen Z experiences greater emotional and functional impacts of climate anxiety compared to older cohorts, while self-efficacy offers a modest buffering effect for functional impairment. These findings underscore the need for interventions that strengthen psychological resources and adaptive coping to mitigate climate-related distress among younger populations.