Abstract:
Adapting to climate change is essential for rice cultivation, especially in climate vulnerable countries like Sri Lanka. While demographic, economic, and climate
factors influencing agricultural adaptation are well-studied, psychological aspects
remain underexplored. This study examined the psychological dimensions
influencing climate adaptation among smallholder rice farmers in the Horowpothana,
Divisional Secretariat Division using protection motivation theory. Five context specific on-farm adaptation practices prioritized by field-level extension officers
based on three effectiveness criteria as yield, quality, and adaptability, and later
validated by farmers were considered for the analysis. Data were collected from 155
rice-farming households. Analytical methods included descriptive statistics and
binary logistic regression. The five prioritized practices for minor irrigation and rain fed rice cultivation in the region included quality seed paddy of climate-smart
varieties, timely land preparation, integrated weed management, integrated pest
management, and the parachute method. The findings revealed significant variations
in farmers' evaluations of response efficacy, which refers to the perceived
effectiveness of the adaptation practice; self-efficacy, which describes their
confidence in successfully implementing the practice; and response cost, which
relates to the perceived expenses or difficulties associated with the practice. Together,
these factors significantly influenced their adoption decisions. For climate-smart seed
varieties, response efficacy positively impacted adoption intentions (p<0.05), while
response cost had a significant negative effect (p<0.05). Behavioral intentions for
other practices were influenced by perceived severity, response efficacy, and self efficacy, while social appraisal and concerns about maladaptation also shaped
adoption intentions. Perceived severity and self-efficacy consistently emerged as
positive influences across all practices, emphasizing the critical role of psychological
preparedness in driving adaptation decisions. These results highlight the need to
address psychological and economic barriers to enhance the adoption of identified
practices. Tailored interventions that increase awareness, build confidence, and
reduce perceived costs are recommended to promote sustainable rice farming under
climate change.
