Environmental Load Theory (ELT) is an emergent theory that attempts to explain the relationship between environmental stressors and psychological adjustment. It suggests that environmental stressors can accumulate over time, leading to psychological and physical health consequences. The theory is grounded in research that has identified a wide range of environmental stressors that can contribute to psychological distress. These stressors include physical factors such as air and noise pollution, as well as social factors such as poverty and social exclusion. ELT proposes that individuals are affected by the cumulative effects of these environmental stressors, leading to increased psychological distress.
Environmental Load Theory has been examined in a number of studies, providing evidence for its validity. For example, a study conducted by Krieger et al. (2006) examined the relationship between cumulative environmental exposures and psychological distress in a sample of African-American women. The results of this study indicated that the cumulative environmental load was significantly associated with psychological distress. Additionally, a longitudinal study conducted by Zorbas et al. (2008) found that higher cumulative environmental exposures were associated with increased psychological symptoms.
These studies suggest that environmental load is an important factor in psychological health. ELT suggests that individuals may be affected by the cumulative effects of environmental stressors, leading to psychological distress. As such, it is important for clinicians to consider the cumulative environmental exposures of their patients when assessing their psychological health. Additionally, interventions designed to reduce environmental stressors may be beneficial for individuals with high levels of environmental load.
In conclusion, Environmental Load Theory is an emergent theory that attempts to explain the relationship between environmental stressors and psychological adjustment. Research has shown that environmental load is associated with increased psychological distress, suggesting that it may be an important factor in psychological health. It is important for clinicians to consider the cumulative environmental exposures of their patients when assessing their psychological health and to consider interventions designed to reduce environmental stressors.
References
Krieger, N., Chen, J., Waterman, P.D., Soobader, M. J., Subramanian, S. V., & Carson, R. (2006). Cumulative environmental exposures and self-reported psychological distress in African-American women. American Journal of Epidemiology, 164(3), 253-262.
Zorbas, P., Vassilopoulos, A., Koutsogeorgou, E., & Roumelioti, F. (2008). Cumulative environmental stressors and psychological symptomatology: A longitudinal study. Environmental Research, 106(2), 221-229.