Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Community Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Manuel Riemer

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

With growing attention to climate change and human impacts on the environment, an emerging body of literature is exploring the impacts of global reliance on meat consumption. Research is increasingly supporting the feasibility of reducing meat consumption to address the environmental pressures of the global food system. However, recommended strategies to promote a reduction in meat consumption have been limited due to narrowly focusing on individual rational decision-making models. Centralizing a Social Practice theoretical lens, the present study utilized an approach to participatory action research to explore the experiences of seven (N = 7) green-building tenants reducing their meat consumption through a series of six weekly peer group and participant-driven meetings in the workplace. Thematic analysis of pre- and post-surveys, the meetings and a follow-up focus group illuminate the supportive role that peer support groups have for engaging in an individual reduction in meat consumption. Aspects of the participatory peer group that contributed most to engagement in the meat reduction process are discussed.

Convocation Year

2020

Convocation Season

Spring

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