Socially and environmentally responsible apparel consumption: knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between social and environmental responsibility knowledge, attitudes, and purchasing behavior.
Design/methodology/approach
An online questionnaire was developed to assess knowledge of, and attitudes towards, issues of social responsibility, including social and environmental aspects related to the production and distribution of apparel and textile goods. Information regarding engagement in socially and environmentally responsible apparel‐purchasing behavior was also collected. Participants included students enrolled at a four‐year institution located in the Midwestern USA.
Findings
Participants indicated being more knowledgeable about apparel environmental issues as compared to apparel social issues. Overall, participants exhibited low involvement in socially and environmentally responsible apparel‐purchasing behavior. However, both knowledge and attitudes of social and environmental issues were significant predictors of socially and environmentally responsible purchasing behavior.
Practical implications
Given the competition among apparel companies operating in the marketplace, this study lends valuable insight for firms in implementing strategic social and environmental practices and policies. The implications of this study also suggest that firms within the industry may need to respond to the barriers perceived by consumers in engaging in sustainable apparel‐purchasing behavior.
Originality/value
The findings of this study are useful in understanding the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Previous research on this topic has been inconclusive. A thorough examination of this topic is important, as noted by previous scholars, consumers have the ability to effect change in the marketplace through their purchasing behavior.
Keywords
Citation
Kozar, J.M. and Hiller Connell, K.Y. (2013), "Socially and environmentally responsible apparel consumption: knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 9 No. 2, pp. 315-324. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-09-2011-0076
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2013, Emerald Group Publishing Limited