Psychological Acceptance and Mental Health in Energy-Efficient Retrofitting: Addressing Anxiety and Stress in Residential Buildings under Carbon Neutrality Goals
Jingxin Zhao, Dong Yan, Jie Li, Wenpu LvAbstract
Objective
This study examines the psychological acceptance and behavioral responses of residents toward energy-efficient retrofitting in Southwest Henan, with a specific focus on understanding how retrofitting processes influence anxiety levels, emotional stress, and overall mental well-being under carbon neutrality goals.
Subjects and Methods
A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining surveys with 600 residents, in-depth interviews with 40 households, and technical energy analysis. Psychological measures included the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Technical feasibility was evaluated through energy simulation software. Structural equation modeling analyzed relationships between psychological factors, mental health indicators, and retrofit adoption.
Results
Residents' psychological acceptance was significantly influenced by perceived benefits (β = 0.72, p < 0.01) and social norms (β = 0.58, p < 0.05), while anxiety about displacement and disruption negatively impacted acceptance (β = -0.45, p < 0.05). Retrofitting reduced energy use by 35% and carbon emissions by 28%, while also lowering residents' stress levels by 22% in completed projects. Integrated pathways combining financial incentives and community support increased retrofit willingness by 45% and reduced anxiety symptoms by 30%.
Conclusions
Successful energy-efficient retrofitting requires addressing both technical feasibility and psychological well-being. Strategies incorporating mental health considerations can enhance resident collaboration and support carbon neutrality goals while promoting community mental health.
Acknowledgement
This research was supported by Adaptive Retrofitting of Old Residential Communities in Southwest Henan and Its Coupling with Carbon Emissions and Optimization Strategies (Henan Province's Science and Technology Research Project-252102320315), and Prefabricated Low-Carbon Foamed Concrete Lightweight Wall Panels and Their Standardized Integrated System for Applications (Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology Key R&D Special Project-241111322300).
Corresponding Author
Jingxin Zhao, Nanyang Institute of Technology, Architecture College, Nanyang, 473000, China.