I am Thomas Gültzow, an assistant professor at the Open University. I am a researcher in the field of (health) behavior and I am passionate about empowering people to make informed decisions about their health, well-being, and societal issues. I have a keen interest in diversity and inclusivity, particularly in how research methods can be made more inclusive for marginalized populations.
Project Title
From Digital Solutions to Fostering Positive Emotions Around Climate-Mitigating Activities
Social transition(s) addressed
Presently, the global population is confronted with various challenges concerning health, well-being, and other societal issues. These challenges include a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases like diabetes mellitus, as well as the pressing problem of climate change, which are highlighted in the Dutch national sector plans for the social sciences and humanities. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has demonstrated the continued emergence of new health and societal problems. However, it is important to note that alongside these challenges, there is a constant stream of new solutions arising for both societal and health issues. For instance, there are innovative mobile applications (apps) that can aid individuals in reducing their carbon footprint, and medical advancements like injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis for the human immunodeficiency virus. Both the challenges and the solutions are to some extent related to human behavior. At the Open University we are therefore currently building a new research line focused on Societal Transitions & Behavior Change. During our presentation we would like to present the first activities we have initiated, in particular a scoping review with a focus on digital applications to encourage pro-environmental behaviors, and share ideas for future projects, here we want to focus in particular on a stronger focus on ‘positive’ emotions surrounding climate-mitigating activities.
Systemic or behavioral change(s) addressed
Behaviors linked to societal challenges and transitions, including anthropogenic climate change (e.g., energy-saving behaviors), as well as health-related behaviors, with a particular emphasis on sexual and mental health behaviors and associated transitions (e.g., transitioning to an inclusive and positive approach to sexual health promotion).
Theoretical approach
Behavior change theory/theories (e.g., self-determination theory) and informed decision making (as loose theoretical approach), preference for theories that incorporate personal autonomy.
Empirical research strategies
I have experience with various research methodologies commonly utilized in social psychology, including qualitative methods like semi-structured interviews, as well as quantitative approaches such as experimental, cross-sectional, and longitudinal research.
Possibilities for inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration
I am generally open to inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration opportunities, especially in the area of how we can better integrate sociocultural aspects with theories of behavior change and decision making.
Important themes for social sciences
At this point, I believe there are two crucial aspects within our sector’s theme that social sciences could consider. The first pertains to finding ways to involve all groups of society in societal transitions and behavioral change. The second involves the need for conceptual clarity within the Netherlands regarding the definitions and boundaries of these terms.
Social transition(s) addressed
Presently, the global population is confronted with various challenges concerning health, well-being, and other societal issues. These challenges include a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases like diabetes mellitus, as well as the pressing problem of climate change, which are highlighted in the Dutch national sector plans for the social sciences and humanities. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has demonstrated the continued emergence of new health and societal problems. However, it is important to note that alongside these challenges, there is a constant stream of new solutions arising for both societal and health issues. For instance, there are innovative mobile applications (apps) that can aid individuals in reducing their carbon footprint, and medical advancements like injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis for the human immunodeficiency virus. Both the challenges and the solutions are to some extent related to human behavior. At the Open University we are therefore currently building a new research line focused on Societal Transitions & Behavior Change. During our presentation we would like to present the first activities we have initiated, in particular a scoping review with a focus on digital applications to encourage pro-environmental behaviors, and share ideas for future projects, here we want to focus in particular on a stronger focus on ‘positive’ emotions surrounding climate-mitigating activities.