Exploring Social Representations of Climate Change Among Qatari University Youth: A Comprehensive Analysis of Environmental Awareness and Behavior

Climate change remains one of the greatest crucial challenges worldwide; with uni-versity students playing a critical role in determining future sustainability. This study investigated the awareness; perceptions; and engagement of female students at Qatar University (N = 890) regarding global climate change and governmental improvement efforts. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA); findings revealed significantly high awareness levels (M = 3.65; SD = 0.76; t(889) = 25.52; p < .001); with 56.5% of respondents showing high awareness. Aware-ness of government initiatives was also elevated (M = 3.77; SD = 0.88; t(889) = 25.96; p < .001). Regression analysis showed that digital media (TV/Internet; social media/AI) and governmental campaigns (Kahramaa; ministries) significantly shaped awareness (R2 = 0.624). Age was the only significant demographic factor. The results emphasize the pivotal role of digital and institutional communication in shaping student climate literacy; while highlighting the need for curriculum integration; media literacy; and campus sustainability structures to bridge the awareness–action gap.