Pro-environmental behaviour among undergraduate students in Ho Chi Minh City: A perspective based on emotional bonding

Authors

DOI:

10.46223/HCMCOUJS.soci.en.16.12.4678.2026

Keywords:

college students; emotional bonding; environmental attitude; perceived policy effectiveness; pro-environmental behaviour

Abstract

Promoting Pro-Environmental Behaviour (PEB) among individuals is essential for mitigating environmental crises, including climate change. The purpose of this study is to close the knowledge gap on PEB among Vietnamese students in Ho Chi Minh City. Through the mediating function of Environmental Attitude (EA) and the moderating function of Perceived Policy Effectiveness (PPE), this study examines the relationship between Emotional Bonding (EMB) and students’ PEB. Using quota sampling and a survey questionnaire, we conducted a quantitative investigation. We developed a comprehensive model incorporating these psychological pathways, based on data from 296 university students in Ho Chi Minh City, utilising Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The study’s findings suggested that students’ EMB may have a significant and favourable impact on PEB. This study also showed that EA can serve as an important mediator between PEB and EMB. Additionally, PPE moderated the relationship between EA and PEB. This study adds to the theoretical underpinnings of PEB while also providing educators and policymakers with useful information to improve students’ adoption of sustainable behaviours.

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References

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Received: 07-08-2025
Accepted: 27-01-2026
Published: 12-05-2026

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How to Cite

Doan, B. S., Nguyen, Q. T. N., Vo, T. K. M., Pham, N. D., Huynh, D. M., & Ngo, T. H. (2026). Pro-environmental behaviour among undergraduate students in Ho Chi Minh City: A perspective based on emotional bonding. Ho Chi Minh City Open University Journal of Science - Social Sciences, 16(12). https://doi.org/10.46223/HCMCOUJS.soci.en.16.12.4678.2026

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Copyright (c) 2026 Doan Bao Son; Nguyen Quach Thao Nhan; Vo Thi Kieu Man; Pham Ngoc Duong; Huynh Diem Mi; Ngo Thi Ha

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.

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